OBD-II fault code

P00A2: Charge Air Cooler Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Bank 2

What it means

The charge air cooler temperature sensor circuit signal for Bank 2 is lower than expected.

At a glance

  • Usually lights the check-engine light
  • Affects emissions; the car can fail an emissions test

How it works

The Bank 2 charge air cooler temperature sensor measures compressed-air temperature after the cooler, and its signal helps the control module manage engine operation. P00A2 sets when the Bank 2 sensor circuit signal is lower than expected, which can be caused by a grounded signal wire or poor connection.

Common causes

Most likely first.

  1. Signal wire shorted to ground
  2. Connector pins corroded - high contact resistance
  3. Harness chafing through insulation

Symptoms

  • Check engine light on
  • Reduced engine performance or boost
  • Poor fuel economy

How to diagnose it

  1. Check freeze-frame and live data to confirm the Bank 2 temperature signal is low and compare it with ambient conditions or the other bank's reading.
  2. Inspect the Bank 2 sensor connector and harness for chafing, corrosion, moisture, or contact with ground.
  3. Use the manufacturer's wiring diagram to test the Bank 2 signal wire for a short to ground and check terminal contact quality.
  4. Verify the sensor reference supply and ground at the Bank 2 connector using the manufacturer's procedure.
  5. If the wiring and supplies pass, test the Bank 2 sensor and then the control-module input as specified by the manufacturer.

Common fixes

  • Repair a Bank 2 signal wire shorted to ground.
  • Repair chafed insulation or reroute the harness away from rubbing surfaces.
  • Clean or replace corroded Bank 2 connector terminals.
  • Replace a Bank 2 sensor or repair the module only if testing confirms the fault.

Can I keep driving?

Gentle driving may be possible if there is no abnormal engine behavior, but reduced boost or power can make merging and passing unpredictable. Avoid hard acceleration and stop if the engine begins to stall or run poorly.

A code shows where the control module detected a fault, not always which part failed. Check the causes in order and confirm with a test before replacing parts. Have several codes? Check them together

This is a generic code: it means the same on every make. The car’s maker may add more detail in its own service information.

Codes for the same component