AutoCodes – Subaru – P0197 Subaru

P0197 Subaru Code - Engine Oil Temperature Sensor 'A' Circuit Low

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: P0197 Subaru indicates Engine Oil Temperature Sensor 'A' Circuit Low.
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 8,854

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 P0197 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 P0197 Subaru - Engine Oil Temperature Sensor 'A' Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com — P0197 Subaru Code - Engine Oil Temperature Sensor 'A' Circuit Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0197 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 P0197 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 P0197 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 P0197 Subaru code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0197 Subaru code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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 P0197 Subaru Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0197 mean on a Subaru?

The P0197 code indicates that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected a low voltage signal from the Engine Oil Temperature Sensor 'A' circuit, suggesting a potential issue with the sensor or its wiring.

2. What are the common symptoms of the P0197 code on a Subaru?

Symptoms may include an illuminated Check Engine Light, poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, hard starting, or erratic oil temperature readings.

3. What causes the P0197 code to appear on a Subaru?

Common causes include a faulty oil temperature sensor, damaged or corroded wiring, loose electrical connections, or a malfunctioning ECM.

4. Can I drive my Subaru with the P0197 code?

Driving with the P0197 code is not recommended, as incorrect oil temperature readings can impact engine performance and potentially lead to engine damage if not addressed.

5. How do I diagnose the P0197 code on a Subaru?

Diagnose the code by checking the oil temperature sensor's voltage output, inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage or corrosion, and testing the sensor's resistance with a multimeter.

6. How do I fix the P0197 code on my Subaru?

Repair steps may include replacing the oil temperature sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connectors, or reprogramming or replacing the ECM if necessary.

7. Where is the Engine Oil Temperature Sensor located on a Subaru?

The oil temperature sensor is typically located near the oil filter housing or in the engine block, depending on the Subaru model.

8. How much does it cost to fix the P0197 code on a Subaru?

Repair costs can range from $50 to $300, depending on whether the issue is with the sensor, wiring, or ECM. Labor costs may vary based on your location and chosen repair shop.

9. Can a low engine oil level trigger the P0197 code on a Subaru?

While a low oil level is not a direct cause of the P0197 code, it can lead to inaccurate oil temperature readings or other engine issues that may contribute to the problem.

10. Will clearing the P0197 code fix the issue permanently?

Clearing the code with an OBDII scanner will remove it temporarily, but unless the underlying issue is resolved, the code is likely to return.