AutoCodes – Generic – P0196

P0196 Code - Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Range/Performance

Quick Answer

The Engine Oil Temperature (EOT) Sensor is used to detect the engine oil temperature. Common causes include Faulty Engine Oil Temperature sensor, Engine Oil Temperature sensor harness is open or shorted, Engine Oil 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: P0196 indicates Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Range/Performance.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Engine Oil Temperature sensor, Engine Oil Temperature sensor harness is open or shorted, Engine Oil 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 31,373

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 May 22, 2024

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P0196 Description

The Engine Oil Temperature (EOT) Sensor is used to detect the engine oil temperature. The sensor modifies a voltage signal from the Engine Control Module (ECM). The modified signal returns to the ECM as the engine oil 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 P0196 - Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Range/Performance - AutoCodes.com — P0196 Code - Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Range/Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0196?

Faulty Engine Oil Temperature sensor
Engine Oil Temperature sensor harness is open or shorted
Engine Oil Temperature sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0196?

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 P0196 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 P0196 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0196 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0196 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P0196 Chrysler — Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Performance
P0196 Ford — Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Circuit Range/Performance Fault
P0196 Hyundai — Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Range/Performance
P0196 Infiniti — Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Range/Performance
P0196 KIA — Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Range/Performance
P0196 Mercedes-Benz — Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Range/Performance
P0196 Nissan — Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Range/Performance
P0196 Subaru — Engine Oil Temperature Sensor 'A' Circuit Range/Performance

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.