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26 July 2023 Fuel temperature sensor: function and failure symptoms
A fuel temperature sensor is a critical vehicle's fuel system component that measures the temperature of the fuel and sends this data to the electronic control module (ECM). The sensor is typically located in the fuel rail or fuel line and consists of a resistance temperature detector (RTD) that changes its resistance based on the fuel's temperature. The ECM uses this information to adjust the fuel-to-air ratio, timing, and other engine parameters to optimize performance and fuel efficiency.
The sensors are usually made from high-quality materials that can withstand exposure to petrol and other fuels. They may be made of stainless steel or other durable materials to prevent corrosion and other types of damage. Most fuel temperature sensors are designed to be compact and lightweight to fit into tight spaces and avoid adding extra weight to the vehicle. Let's look at how you can tell if your sensor is malfunctioning.
VDO Fuel temperature sensor
Article number: A2C5335467080
£ 29,72
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BOSCH Fuel temperature sensor
Article number: 0 281 006 021
£ 16,76
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METZGER Fuel temperature sensor
Article number: 0905323
£ 21,26
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: AS2167
£ 9,67
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Common fuel temperature sensor defects – causes and symptoms
Because the fuel temperature sensor, or if you happen to own a Passat, the VW Passat fuel temperature sensor, is responsible for measuring the temperature of the fuel in the fuel system, when it is defective it can cause a variety of symptoms that can affect the performance of your vehicle. Here are some of the most common ones:
- If the sensor is defective, it can cause the engine to use more fuel than necessary, leading to decreased fuel efficiency.
- Since the sensor provides data to the engine control module (ECM) to adjust the fuel-to-air mixture, timing, and other factors, a malfunction may cause the engine to run poorly, stall, or have difficulty starting.
- A malfunction can trigger the check engine light on the dashboard. The ECM monitors the sensor’s readings and detects when they fall outside of expected ranges.
- The vehicle may produce more emissions than it should. You must be aware of this because this can cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test
- A defective sensor can also cause issues with the fuel system, leading to problems with the car’s fuel pump, injector, and filter.
Fuel temperature sensor a circuit malfunction
A diagnostic trouble code (such as P0180) indicates a problem with the circuit that connects the car’s fuel temperature sensor to the electronic control module (ECM). The ECM uses the sensor to determine the temperature of the fuel and adjusts the fuel-to-air ratio accordingly to optimize engine performance and fuel efficiency. Malfunctions can be caused by a number of issues, including a broken wire or connector, a damaged sensor, or a fault in the ECM itself.
If you receive a fuel temperature sensor circuit malfunction code, it's essential to have your vehicle diagnosed by a qualified mechanic to determine the cause of the issue and make necessary repairs. Failure to address the problem may result in further damage to your vehicle and can lead to decreased performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential safety hazards.
Fuel temperature sensor maintenance
Because the sensor is a critical component of your vehicle’s fuel system, it requires periodic maintenance to make sure it functions properly and provides you with accurate readings. Therefore, you should check for signs of wear and tear by inspecting the sensor and its wiring for signs of damage or corrosion. Make sure it is free of dirt and debris and clean the fuel tank, lines, and injectors to prevent blockages. The sensors usually last for several years, but they do eventually wear out and require replacement. Refer to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule to determine when it should be replaced. By following these maintenance tips, you can help ensure the proper function and longevity of your vehicle's fuel temperature sensor.
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