AutoCodesGeneric – P0544

P0544 Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Bank 1 Sensor 1

Quick Answer

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) continuously monitors the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) for proper circuit continuity and out of range high values. Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) Bank 1 Sensor 1, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection. Severity is Moderate - service should be scheduled soon. The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.

What it means
P0544 indicates Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Bank 1 Sensor 1.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) Bank 1 Sensor 1, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection.
Severity
Moderate - service should be scheduled soon.
Can I drive?
The vehicle may still be drivable for short trips if it runs normally, but avoid hard driving and repair it soon.
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Code Popularity 37,289
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jan 15, 2019
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Code P0544 Description

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) continuously monitors the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) for proper circuit continuity and out of range high values. The EGTS is located in front of the Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC) and/or in front of the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). The EGTS detects exhaust gas temperature and converts it into a voltage and feeds back to the PCM with the voltage signal in order to control engine conditions to effectively reduce emissions. The PCM sets the P0544 OBDII code when the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor is out of factory specifications.
OBDII Code P0544 - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Bank 1 Sensor 1 - AutoCodes.com
P0544 Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Bank 1 Sensor 1

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0544?

  • Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) Bank 1 Sensor 1
  • Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted
  • Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection
  • Exhaust leaks
  • Excessive particulate matter buildup on sensor

How to Fix the DTC P0544?

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 P0544 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 P0544 code?

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Information for Specific Makes

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 P0544 Code

What does OBDII code P0544 mean?

Code P0544 indicates a problem with the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit for Bank 1, Sensor 1, which is responsible for monitoring exhaust gas temperature to optimize engine performance and emissions.

What are the symptoms of code P0544?

Common symptoms include the check engine light turning on, poor fuel efficiency, reduced engine performance, and potentially higher emissions.

What causes code P0544?

Possible causes include a faulty exhaust gas temperature sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, excessive soot buildup on the sensor, or issues with the engine control module (ECM).

Can I drive my car with code P0544?

While it’s possible to drive with this code, it’s not recommended as it can lead to reduced engine efficiency and potential damage to components like the catalytic converter.

How is code P0544 diagnosed?

Technicians typically use an OBDII scanner, inspect the exhaust gas temperature sensor and its wiring, test the sensor’s electrical resistance, and check for soot or contamination.

How do you fix code P0544?

Repairs may include replacing the faulty exhaust gas temperature sensor, cleaning the sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, or updating the ECM software.

How much does it cost to fix code P0544?

The cost of repairs can vary, but replacing an exhaust gas temperature sensor generally costs $150–$300, including parts and labor.

Can a dirty sensor trigger code P0544?

Yes, excessive soot or debris buildup on the exhaust gas temperature sensor can lead to inaccurate readings and trigger this code.

What is Bank 1 Sensor 1 in code P0544?

Bank 1 refers to the side of the engine with cylinder 1, and Sensor 1 is the exhaust gas temperature sensor located closest to the engine or turbocharger.

Is code P0544 related to emissions?

Yes, the exhaust gas temperature sensor plays a role in optimizing emissions control, and a malfunction can lead to higher pollutant output.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0544 OBDII Code

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