AutoCodes – Generic – P1161

P1161 Code - Intake Air Temperature Sensor Open/Short To Positive

Quick Answer

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the Intake Air Temperature Sensor. Common causes include Faulty Intake Air Temperature Sensor, Intake Air Temperature Sensor harness is shorted, Intake Air 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: P1161 indicates Intake Air Temperature Sensor Open/Short To Positive.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Intake Air Temperature Sensor, Intake Air Temperature Sensor harness is shorted, Intake Air 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 16,476

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 23, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1161 Description

The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the Intake Air Temperature Sensor. The ECM sets the OBDII code when the Intake Air Temperature Sensor is not to factory specifications.

OBDII Code P1161 - Intake Air Temperature Sensor Open/Short To Positive - AutoCodes.com — P1161 Code - Intake Air Temperature Sensor Open/Short To Positive

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1161?

Faulty Intake Air Temperature Sensor
Intake Air Temperature Sensor harness is shorted
Intake Air Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P1161?

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 P1161 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 P1161 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1161 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P1161 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P1161 Audi — Intake Air Temperature Sensor Open/Short To Positive
P1161 BMW — Fuel Trim Adaptation Additive High Bank 2
P1161 Buick — HO2S Heater Control Circuit Bank 2 Sensor 2
P1161 Cadillac — HO2S Heater Control Circuit Bank 2 Sensor 2
P1161 Chevrolet — HO2S Heater Control Circuit Bank 2 Sensor 2
P1161 GMC — HO2S Heater Control Circuit Bank 2 Sensor 2
P1161 Land Rover — LH Bank Lambda Control Adaption Per Ignition Too Small
P1161 MINI — Fuel Trim Adaptation Additive High Bank 2
P1161 Volkswagen — Intake Air Temperature Sensor Open/Short To Positive

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 P1161 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1161 (Intake Air Temperature Sensor Open/Short To Positive)?

The common symptoms of this code may include rough idling, decreased fuel efficiency, engine stalling, and a noticeable decrease in engine performance.

2. What can cause the OBDII code P1161 to trigger?

The OBDII code P1161 is typically triggered when there is an open circuit or a short circuit to positive in the intake air temperature sensor wiring.

3. How can I diagnose the issue causing OBDII code P1161?

Diagnosing the issue involves checking the intake air temperature sensor wiring for any visible damage, testing the sensor's resistance, and inspecting the sensor connector for corrosion or loose connections.

4. Can a faulty intake air temperature sensor cause code P1161?

Yes, a faulty intake air temperature sensor can cause code P1161 to trigger, especially if the sensor is open or shorted to positive.

5. What are some repair tips for fixing OBDII code P1161?

Repair tips include repairing or replacing damaged wiring, replacing the intake air temperature sensor if faulty, and clearing the trouble code to see if it reappears.

6. Is it safe to continue driving with OBDII code P1161 present?

It is generally not recommended to continue driving with OBDII code P1161 present, as it can negatively impact your vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P1161 at home?

Depending on your skill level and access to tools, some DIY enthusiasts may be able to fix OBDII code P1161 by following repair guides and tutorials. However, professional help may be necessary for complex wiring issues.

8. Will OBDII code P1161 cause damage to other engine components if left unresolved?

Leaving OBDII code P1161 unresolved may not cause immediate damage to other engine components, but it can lead to decreased engine performance and fuel efficiency over time.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P1161 at a mechanic's shop?

The cost of repairing OBDII code P1161 at a mechanic's shop can vary depending on the extent of the issue, but it may range from $100 to $300 including parts and labor.

10. Can extreme weather conditions affect the triggering of OBDII code P1161?

Yes, extreme weather conditions such as extreme heat or cold can sometimes affect the intake air temperature sensor's performance and potentially trigger OBDII code P1161.