P0185 – OBD-II DTC

OBD-II DTC P0185 – Fuel Temperature Sensor A Circuit Intermittent

DTC P0185 meaning

DTC P0185 refers to a diagnostic trouble code that indicates an intermittent issue with the Fuel Temperature Sensor A circuit. This sensor is responsible for monitoring the temperature of the fuel in the fuel tank or fuel lines. The Engine Control Module (ECM) uses this information to optimize fuel delivery and engine performance. An intermittent fault suggests that the problem may not be constant, making it more challenging to diagnose.

DTC P0185 symptoms

Common symptoms associated with DTC P0185 may include:

• Check Engine Light illuminated
• Engine performance issues, such as rough idling or stalling
• Decreased fuel efficiency
• Difficulty starting the engine
• Unusual fuel odor

DTC P0185 causes

Several factors can lead to the triggering of DTC P0185, including:

• Faulty fuel temperature sensor
• Wiring issues, such as frayed or damaged wires
• Corroded or loose electrical connections
• Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)
• Intermittent short circuits or open circuits in the sensor circuit

DTC P0185 seriousness

The seriousness of DTC P0185 can vary. While it may not cause immediate catastrophic failure, it can lead to:

• Reduced engine performance
• Poor fuel economy
• Increased emissions
• Potential long-term damage to the engine if left unaddressed

It is advisable to diagnose and repair the issue promptly to maintain optimal vehicle performance.

How to diagnose DTC P0185

To diagnose DTC P0185, follow these steps:

1. Use an OBD-II scanner to confirm the presence of the P0185 code.
2. Check for any additional trouble codes that may provide more context.
3. Inspect the fuel temperature sensor and its wiring for visible damage or corrosion.
4. Test the fuel temperature sensor using a multimeter to ensure it operates within specifications.
5. Check the electrical connections for tightness and cleanliness.
6. Monitor the sensor readings with a scan tool while the engine is running to identify any intermittent issues.

How to fix DTC P0185 step-by-step instructions

To fix DTC P0185, follow these steps:

1. Repair or replace any damaged wiring or connectors associated with the fuel temperature sensor.
2. If the fuel temperature sensor is faulty, replace it with a new one.
3. Clear any corrosion from electrical connections and ensure they are secure.
4. Recheck the sensor operation with a multimeter to confirm it is functioning correctly.
5. Reconnect the battery and use an OBD-II scanner to clear the trouble codes.
6. Test drive the vehicle to ensure the issue is resolved and the Check Engine Light does not reappear.

How to erase DTC P0185

To erase DTC P0185, follow these steps:

1. Connect an OBD-II scanner to the vehicle’s diagnostic port.
2. Turn on the ignition without starting the engine.
3. Navigate to the “Erase Codes” or “Clear Codes” option on the scanner.
4. Confirm the action to clear the trouble codes.
5. Disconnect the scanner and start the engine to verify that the Check Engine Light is off.

Recommended tools for OBD-II diagnostics

Explore our expert picks: The Best OBD2 Scanners for 2025

Easy-to-use Multimeter for reliable diagnostics: AstroAI Auto-ranging Multimeter

Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. This helps us keep our DTC database up to date and provide valuable content for free. We only recommend products that we have tested and believe to be the best in their class.