AutoCodes – Dodge – P2185 Dodge

P2185 Dodge Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High

Quick Answer

Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor 2 is a thermistor attached to the radiator. Common causes include Low coolant level, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, Stuck or leaking thermostat. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P2185 Dodge indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High.
Common causes: Common causes include Low coolant level, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, Stuck or leaking thermostat.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 7,428

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P2185 Dodge Description

Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor 2 is a thermistor attached to the radiator. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) applies voltage (about 5 V) to the ECT2 signal circuit through a pull up resistor. As the engine coolant temperature cools, ECT sensor 2 resistance increases, and the PCM detects a high signal voltage. As the engine coolant warms, the sensor resistance decreases, and the PCM detects a low ECT2 signal voltage. If the ECT sensor 2 output voltage is less than a set value when the engine coolant temperature is high, the PCM detects a malfunction and a DTC is stored.

OBDII Code P2185 Dodge - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High - AutoCodes.com — P2185 Dodge Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2185 Dodge?

Low coolant level
Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor
Stuck or leaking thermostat
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

How to Fix the DTC P2185 Dodge?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P2185 Dodge code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

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Need Help with the Code?

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P2185 Dodge Code

1. What does the OBDII code P2185 mean for a Dodge vehicle?

P2185 indicates that the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor 2 is reporting a high voltage signal, suggesting a possible fault in the sensor or its circuit.

2. What are the symptoms of the P2185 code in a Dodge?

Common symptoms include overheating, poor fuel efficiency, engine misfires, difficulty starting, and the check engine light being illuminated.

3. What causes the P2185 code to appear?

Causes may include a faulty ECT sensor, damaged or corroded wiring, a bad electrical connection, or issues with the engine control module (ECM).

4. Can I drive my Dodge with a P2185 code?

Driving with a P2185 code is not recommended, as it can lead to engine overheating or other performance issues that may cause further damage.

5. How do I fix the P2185 code on my Dodge?

Repairs may involve replacing the ECT sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connections, or reprogramming the ECM if necessary.

6. Where is the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 located in a Dodge?

The ECT Sensor 2 is typically located near the thermostat housing or on the engine block, depending on the Dodge model.

7. How much does it cost to repair a P2185 code in a Dodge?

Repair costs can range from $50 to $300, depending on whether the issue is with the sensor, wiring, or other components.

8. Can a bad thermostat cause the P2185 code?

While a bad thermostat is not a direct cause, it can contribute to abnormal temperature readings that may trigger this code.

9. How is the P2185 code diagnosed in a Dodge?

Diagnosis includes scanning the ECM, inspecting the ECT sensor and wiring, checking for correct voltage signals, and testing the cooling system components.

10. Will clearing the code fix the P2185 issue?

Clearing the code will reset the check engine light temporarily, but the underlying issue must be resolved to prevent the code from returning.