Faulty charge air cooler temperature sensor; Faulty intake air temperature sensor; Damaged or corroded wiring or connectors in the sensor circuits; Intake air leaks or restrictions between the charge air cooler and the intake manifold; Charge air cooler efficiency issues, such as a clogged or damaged cooler; Engine control module software issues or internal faults

DTC codes / P01xx · Fuel and air metering / P011C

P011CCharge Air Cooler Temperature/Intake Air Temperature Correlation Bank 1

P011C indicates that the powertrain control module has detected an implausible relationship between the charge air cooler temperature sensor and the intake air temperature sensor on bank 1. The computer compares their readings under specific operating conditions and flags the code when the temperature values do not correlate as expected, typically after a cold start or during steady driving.

SystemPowertrain

Code typeGeneric (all makes)

SeverityMedium

Fix difficultyIntermediate

AreaFuel and air metering

Symptoms you may notice

Illumination of the check engine light, often with no other noticeable symptoms
Reduced engine performance or power, especially during acceleration
Decreased fuel economy due to incorrect air density calculations
Rough idle or hesitation when the engine is cold
In rare cases, a limp-home mode may be activated

Common causes, most likely first

Faulty charge air cooler temperature sensor
Faulty intake air temperature sensor
Damaged or corroded wiring or connectors in the sensor circuits
Intake air leaks or restrictions between the charge air cooler and the intake manifold
Charge air cooler efficiency issues, such as a clogged or damaged cooler
Engine control module software issues or internal faults

How to diagnose and fix it

Perform a visual inspection of the charge air cooler, intake air temperature sensor, and associated wiring for obvious damage or disconnection
Use a scan tool to read live data from both the charge air cooler temperature and intake air temperature sensors and compare their readings during a cold start and after warm-up
Check the sensor circuits for continuity, short circuits, and resistance according to the manufacturer's specifications
Test the charge air cooler temperature sensor and intake air temperature sensor with a multimeter to verify their resistance changes with temperature
Inspect the charge air cooler for restrictions, leaks, or debris that could affect its performance
Repair or replace any faulty sensors, wiring, or connectors as needed
Clear the diagnostic trouble codes and verify the repair by performing a test drive under the conditions that originally set the code

Sensor Correlation Checks Before Parts Replacement

A common oversight is replacing the charge air cooler temperature sensor without first verifying the intake air temperature sensor's accuracy, as a skewed intake air temperature sensor can cause the correlation code to set.
The code can be triggered by a dirty or contaminated mass airflow sensor that indirectly affects intake air temperature readings, so cleaning it is a worthwhile preliminary step.
In some vehicles, the charge air cooler temperature sensor is integrated into the intake air temperature sensor, so a single faulty component can cause both readings to be implausible.
A weak battery or charging system issue can cause erratic sensor readings and set this code, so always check the vehicle's electrical system health first.
After repairs, the code may not clear immediately; a specific drive cycle, often including a cold start and steady-speed driving, is required for the monitor to run and confirm the fix.

Can I keep driving with P011C?

It is generally safe to continue driving with this code, but avoid heavy acceleration or towing until the issue is resolved, as the engine may be operating with reduced performance and efficiency. If the check engine light begins flashing or you notice severe power 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.