AutoCodes – Generic – P0188

P0188 Code - Fuel Temperature Sensor 'B' Circuit High Input

Quick Answer

The fuel tank temperature sensor is used to detect the fuel temperature inside the fuel tank. Common causes include Faulty Fuel Temperature Sensor, Fuel Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Fuel Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection. 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: P0188 indicates Fuel Temperature Sensor 'B' Circuit High Input.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Fuel Temperature Sensor, Fuel Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Fuel Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection.
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 20,340

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
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P0188 Description

The fuel tank temperature sensor is used to detect the fuel temperature inside the fuel tank. The sensor modifies a voltage signal from the Engine Control Module (ECM). The modified signal returns to the ECM as the fuel temperature input. The sensor uses a thermistor which is sensitive to the change in temperature. The electrical resistance of the thermistor decreases as temperature increases.

OBDII Code P0188 - Fuel Temperature Sensor 'B' Circuit High Input - AutoCodes.com — P0188 Code - Fuel Temperature Sensor 'B' Circuit High Input

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0188?

Faulty Fuel Temperature Sensor
Fuel Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted
Fuel Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0188?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

Replaced Fuel Temperature Sensor

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0188 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.

Need more information about the P0188 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0188 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0188 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P0188 Ford — Engine Fuel Temperature Sensor 'B' Circuit High Input
P0188 Mercedes-Benz — Fuel Temperature Sensor 'B' Circuit High Input
P0188 Volkswagen — Fuel Temperature Sensor B Circuit High Input

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.