Open circuit in the signal wire between the charge air cooler temperature sensor and the PCM; Short to voltage on the signal circuit, often due to chafed wiring or a faulty connector; Failed charge air cooler temperature sensor (bank 2); Corroded, loose, or damaged electrical connector at the sensor or PCM; PCM internal fault causing incorrect voltage interpretation (less common); Aftermarket or incorrect sensor installed that does not match OEM specifications

DTC codes / P00xx · Fuel and air metering and auxiliary emission controls / P00A3

P00A3Charge Air Cooler Temperature Sensor Circuit High Bank 2

Q: What does code P00A3 mean?

Charge Air Cooler Temperature Sensor Circuit High Bank 2. P00A3 indicates that the powertrain control module has detected an abnormally high voltage signal from the charge air cooler temperature sensor on bank 2, which typically means the sensor circuit is open or shorted to voltage. The computer expects the sensor to report a plausible temperature, but the signal is outside the normal range, so it sets this code and may illuminate the check engine light.

P00A3 indicates that the powertrain control module has detected an abnormally high voltage signal from the charge air cooler temperature sensor on bank 2, which typically means the sensor circuit is open or shorted to voltage. The computer expects the sensor to report a plausible temperature, but the signal is outside the normal range, so it sets this code and may illuminate the check engine light.

SystemPowertrain

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaFuel and air metering and auxiliary emission controls

Symptoms you may notice

Check engine light illuminated, often with no other noticeable symptoms
Reduced engine performance or power, especially under heavy load or during acceleration
Decreased fuel efficiency due to the computer altering fuel and boost strategies
Possible rough idle or hesitation if the faulty signal affects air-fuel mixture calculations
In rare cases, the engine may enter limp mode to protect the turbocharger or engine

Common causes, most likely first

Open circuit in the signal wire between the charge air cooler temperature sensor and the PCM
Short to voltage on the signal circuit, often due to chafed wiring or a faulty connector
Failed charge air cooler temperature sensor (bank 2)
Corroded, loose, or damaged electrical connector at the sensor or PCM
PCM internal fault causing incorrect voltage interpretation (less common)
Aftermarket or incorrect sensor installed that does not match OEM specifications

How to diagnose and fix it

Use a scan tool to verify the code and check live data for the charge air cooler temperature sensor reading to confirm it is stuck at a high value or out of range
Visually inspect the sensor and its connector for damage, corrosion, or loose pins, and repair as needed
Disconnect the sensor and measure resistance across its terminals, comparing to the manufacturer's specification for the current temperature
Check the signal wire for continuity and for short to voltage using a digital multimeter, repairing any wiring faults
If the wiring and connector are good, replace the charge air cooler temperature sensor with a quality OEM or equivalent part
Clear the code and perform a road test to verify the repair, monitoring live data to ensure the sensor reads correctly

What the high voltage reading really means

A high voltage signal on a temperature sensor circuit almost always indicates an open circuit or a short to voltage, not necessarily a failed sensor, so wiring checks should come before parts replacement.
On many vehicles, the charge air cooler temperature sensor is integrated into the charge air cooler or intake manifold, making replacement more labor-intensive than a simple bolt-on sensor.
This code can be set by a poor connection at the PCM connector even if the sensor and wiring near the engine look fine, so always inspect both ends of the circuit.
A faulty charge air cooler temperature sensor can cause the computer to misjudge air density and alter boost pressure, leading to drivability issues that mimic turbocharger problems.
Bank 2 refers to the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder 1, so on V6 or V8 engines, confirm you are working on the correct bank before diagnosing.

Can I keep driving with P00A3?

You can usually continue driving with this code, but avoid heavy acceleration or towing until it is repaired, as the engine may reduce power to protect the turbocharger. If the check engine light starts flashing or you notice severe performance loss, stop driving and seek professional diagnosis.

Tools that help

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Guidance is general and written for all OBD-II vehicles. Exact tests and values vary by model, so confirm the fault before replacing parts.