AutoCodes – Generic – P0546

P0546 Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High Voltage

Quick Answer

The Exhaust Gas Temperature sensors (EGTS) are variable resistors that measure the temperature of the exhaust gas. Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) 1, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Gas Temperature 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: P0546 indicates Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High Voltage.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) 1, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Gas Temperature 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 44,959

How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium

Repair Importance Level

Moderate (Service soon) (2 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 03, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0546 Description

The Exhaust Gas Temperature sensors (EGTS) are variable resistors that measure the temperature of the exhaust gas. Exhaust temperature sensor 1 is the first exhaust temperature sensor in the exhaust system, the following exhaust temperature sensors are counted upward from the engine outlet to the exhaust system end. The Engine Control Module (ECM) supplies 5 V to the exhaust gas temperature signal circuit and supplies a ground to the low reference circuit. The exhaust gas temperature sensor temperature information is used by the ECM during the exhaust gas particulate filter cleaning process. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will ve set when the ECM detects that the exhaust gas temperature sensor is greater than 900 Ω for greater than 2 s.

OBDII Code P0546 - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P0546 Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0546?

Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) 1
Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted
Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0546?

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

After starting the engine, the exhaust gas temperature sensor temperature should rise steadily, then stabilize after the engine reaches operating temperature. Exhaust gas temperature sensors may fail intermittently while operating under extreme temperatures. Review the Freeze Frame/Failure Records to verify the failure criteria.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0546 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 P0546 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0546 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

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Information for Specific Makes

P0546 Chevrolet — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High Voltage
P0546 Dodge — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit High Bank 1 Sensor 1
P0546 Ford — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit High Bank 1 Sensor 1
P0546 GMC — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High Voltage
P0546 Lincoln — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit High Bank 1 Sensor 1
P0546 Mercedes-Benz — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit High Bank 1 Sensor 1
P0546 Mercury — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit High Bank 1 Sensor 1
P0546 Subaru — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit High Bank 1 Sensor 1
P0546 Volkswagen — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit High Bank 1 Sensor 1

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 P0546 Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P0546?

- Common symptoms include the illumination of the Check Engine Light, reduced engine performance, and potential issues with fuel efficiency.

2. What causes OBDII code P0546 to trigger?

- The code P0546 is triggered when the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 detects a high voltage condition, often due to a malfunction in the sensor itself or issues with the wiring or connectors.

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P0546?

- Diagnosing the cause of P0546 typically involves checking the exhaust gas temperature sensor's wiring and connectors for damage, testing the sensor's resistance, and using a diagnostic scan tool to monitor sensor data.

4. Can a faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 cause other problems in the vehicle?

- Yes, a faulty sensor can lead to inaccurate temperature readings, which may affect the engine's performance and emissions control system.

5. Is it safe to continue driving with OBDII code P0546 present?

- It is generally not recommended to drive with the P0546 code present, as it can lead to potential engine performance issues and may cause damage to the catalytic converter or other components over time.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0546?

- Repairing P0546 often involves replacing the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 if it is found to be faulty, as well as repairing any damaged wiring or connectors associated with the sensor.

7. Are there any DIY tips for fixing OBDII code P0546?

- DIY tips for fixing P0546 include ensuring the sensor is properly connected and checking for any visible damage to the sensor or its wiring before considering a replacement.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0546?

- The cost of repairing P0546 can vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle, but it generally ranges from $150 to $300 for parts and labor.

9. Can resetting the OBDII system clear the P0546 code?

- Resetting the OBDII system may temporarily clear the P0546 code, but it is likely to return if the underlying issue with the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 1 is not addressed.

10. Will OBDII code P0546 cause my vehicle to fail an emissions test?

- Yes, having the P0546 code present in your vehicle may cause it to fail an emissions test, as it indicates a potential issue with the exhaust gas temperature sensor and emissions control system.