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DTC codes / P00xx · Fuel and air metering and auxiliary emission controls / P00CE

P00CEIntake Air Temperature Measurement System - Multiple Sensor Correlation Bank 1

P00CE indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected an implausible relationship between multiple intake air temperature (IAT) sensor signals on bank 1, meaning the readings from two or more sensors that should track closely together differ by more than the calibrated threshold. The ECM monitors these sensors to ensure the intake air temperature measurement is reliable for fuel delivery and emissions control.

SystemPowertrain
Code typeGeneric (all makes)
SeverityLow
Fix difficultyIntermediate
AreaFuel and air metering and auxiliary emission controls

Symptoms you may notice

  • Illumination of the check engine light, often with no other noticeable symptoms.
  • Rough idle or hesitation during acceleration if the faulty signal affects fuel calculation.
  • Poor fuel economy due to incorrect air density estimation.
  • Intermittent stalling or surging, especially when the engine is cold or under light load.
  • In rare cases, a no-start condition if the temperature signal is far outside the expected range.

Common causes, most likely first

  1. Faulty intake air temperature sensor (one or more) sending erratic or biased readings.
  2. Damaged or corroded wiring in the sensor circuit, such as open or short circuits.
  3. Poor electrical connections at the sensor or ECM connectors.
  4. Intake air leaks after the mass airflow sensor or between sensors, causing temperature discrepancies.
  5. ECM software calibration issues or internal fault in the temperature sensing circuit.
  6. Aftermarket performance intake systems that alter sensor placement or airflow characteristics.

How to diagnose and fix it

  1. Use an OBD-II scan tool to record live data from all intake air temperature sensors and compare readings during key-on, engine-off and while running.
  2. Visually inspect the sensors, wiring, and connectors for damage, corrosion, or loose pins; repair as needed.
  3. Check for intake air leaks using a smoke machine or propane enrichment test, and fix any leaks found.
  4. Measure resistance of each IAT sensor with a multimeter and compare to the manufacturer's temperature-resistance chart to identify a faulty sensor.
  5. Verify reference voltage and ground signals at each sensor connector with a multimeter or oscilloscope to rule out circuit faults.
  6. If all sensors and circuits test good, reflash or replace the ECM only after confirming with a known-good unit or following manufacturer diagnostics.

Multiple IAT sensors can mislead diagnosis

  • A common oversight is assuming the code points to a single sensor, but P00CE specifically indicates a correlation problem between multiple sensors, so testing each sensor individually is essential.
  • Intake air temperature sensors are often integrated into the mass airflow sensor (MAF) or manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor, so a fault in the MAF or MAP can set this code even if a separate IAT sensor exists.
  • Aftermarket air intake systems can change the airflow and heat soak characteristics around the sensors, causing plausible but mismatched readings that trigger P00CE without any defective component.
  • The ECM may set P00CE intermittently if a sensor connector has a loose pin that only loses contact during vibration or temperature swings, so wiggle tests while monitoring live data are valuable.
  • This code does not always mean a sensor has failed; it can be set by a software calibration issue that requires an ECM update, so checking for technical service bulletins is worthwhile before replacing parts.

Can I keep driving with P00CE?

The vehicle is generally safe to drive with P00CE because the fault typically causes only minor drivability issues, but avoid heavy acceleration or towing until the problem is diagnosed. Prolonged driving with incorrect intake air temperature readings may reduce fuel economy and increase emissions, so schedule repairs soon.

Tools that help

Tools we recommend are in the Auto Veteran shop on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

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

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