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P00A6

Moderate

Intake Air Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit Range/Performance Bank 2

What Does P00A6 Mean?

The PCM has detected that the intake air temperature sensor 2 on bank 2 is providing readings that are out of the expected range or not responding correctly to changes in operating conditions. While the sensor circuit is electrically functional, the reported temperatures don't match what the PCM expects based on engine load, speed, ambient conditions, and other sensor inputs. This can cause suboptimal fuel trim and ignition timing on bank 2.

Common Causes

30%

Degraded or drifted IAT sensor 2 on bank 2 providing inaccurate readings

Intake air temperature sensor 2

25%

Sensor mounted in a location affected by heat soak from engine or exhaust

Intake manifold
Heat shield
Sensor mounting location

20%

Air leak in the intake tract on bank 2 affecting airflow past the sensor

Intake manifold gasket
Vacuum hoses
Intake boot

15%

Intermittent wiring resistance affecting sensor accuracy without triggering a hard fault

Wiring harness
Connector pins
Sensor connector

10%

Contamination on the sensor element (oil, coolant) affecting thermal response

Intake air temperature sensor 2
PCV system
Intake manifold

Diagnostic Steps

1

Compare IAT sensor 2 bank 2 PID with IAT sensor 1 and the bank 1 equivalent (if equipped) during steady-state driving — all readings should track within 10°F/6°C of each other under similar conditions.

2

Monitor the sensor response during a cold start warm-up cycle — temperature should gradually rise in response to engine heat. An erratic, flat, or abnormally fast response indicates sensor issues.

3

Remove the sensor and inspect for oil, coolant, or carbon contamination on the sensing element that could insulate it and cause slow or inaccurate response.

4

Check for intake manifold vacuum leaks on bank 2 using a smoke machine — unmetered air entering near the sensor can affect its readings.

5

Bench-test the sensor in water at known temperatures (use a thermometer) to verify the resistance-vs-temperature curve matches manufacturer specifications at multiple points.

Estimated Repair Cost

$60 - $300

Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location

Frequently Asked Questions

What does P00A6 mean?

The PCM has detected that the intake air temperature sensor 2 on bank 2 is providing readings that are out of the expected range or not responding correctly to changes in operating conditions. While the sensor circuit is electrically functional, the reported temperatures don't match what the PCM exp...

What causes P00A6?

The most common cause of P00A6 (Intake Air Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit Range/Performance Bank 2) is: Degraded or drifted IAT sensor 2 on bank 2 providing inaccurate readings

How much does it cost to fix P00A6?

Typical repair costs for P00A6 range from $60 to $300, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.

Is it safe to drive with P00A6?

Safe to drive. The engine may run slightly less efficiently with some decrease in fuel economy. Long-term, inaccurate air temperature data could contribute to suboptimal combustion and increased emissions. Repair at your convenience.

How do I diagnose P00A6?

Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P00A6 to identify the root cause.

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Quick Info

Category

Powertrain

System

Intake Air System

Difficulty

Moderate

Type

Generic (SAE)

Recommended Tools

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