AutoCodes – Subaru – P0196 Subaru

P0196 Subaru Code - Engine Oil Temperature Sensor 'A' Circuit Range/Performance

Quick Answer

The engine oil temperature 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 Subaru indicates Engine Oil Temperature Sensor 'A' Circuit 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 8,443

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 P0196 Subaru Description

The engine oil temperature 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 Subaru - Engine Oil Temperature Sensor 'A' Circuit Range/Performance - AutoCodes.com — P0196 Subaru Code - Engine Oil Temperature Sensor 'A' Circuit Range/Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0196 Subaru?

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 Subaru?

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 Subaru 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 Subaru code?

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

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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 P0196 Subaru Code

What does the OBDII code P0196 mean for a Subaru?

Code P0196 indicates an issue with the Engine Oil Temperature Sensor 'A' circuit, specifically a range or performance problem.

What are the common symptoms of code P0196?

Symptoms may include illumination of the check engine light, erratic oil temperature readings, poor engine performance, and potential overheating.

What causes the P0196 code in a Subaru?

Common causes include a malfunctioning oil temperature sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, or issues with the vehicle's engine control module (ECM).

Can I drive my Subaru with code P0196?

While you may be able to drive with this code, doing so can risk engine damage due to inaccurate oil temperature readings. Itâ€™s best to address the issue promptly.

How do I diagnose code P0196?

Start by inspecting the oil temperature sensor, wiring, and connectors for damage or corrosion. Use a multimeter to check for proper sensor operation and scan for related codes.

How do I fix the P0196 code?

Repairs may include replacing the oil temperature sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, and cleaning or replacing corroded connectors.

Is replacing the engine oil temperature sensor difficult?

Replacing the sensor is generally straightforward if you can access it easily. Refer to your vehicleâ€™s service manual for the exact location and steps.

What tools are needed to fix code P0196?

Basic tools like a multimeter, socket set, and possibly a scan tool are needed for testing and repairs.

How much does it cost to fix code P0196 in a Subaru?

The repair cost depends on the specific issue, but replacing an oil temperature sensor typically costs $50-$150 for parts and labor.

Can a dirty oil filter cause code P0196?

While unlikely, a severely restricted oil flow due to a dirty filter might indirectly affect temperature readings. Replacing the filter is a good preventive measure.