P118B Buick Code - Particulate Matter Sensor Temperature Not Plausible
Quick Answer
The particulate matter (PM) sensor monitors the amount of the particulates (soot) in the diesel exhaust gas exiting the tailpipe. Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Particulate Matter Sensor, Exhaust Particulate Matter Sensor harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Particulate Matter 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
- P118B Buick indicates Particulate Matter Sensor Temperature Not Plausible.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Particulate Matter Sensor, Exhaust Particulate Matter Sensor harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Particulate Matter 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.
Code P118B Buick Description
The operation of the PM Sensor is based on the electrical conductivity characteristic of the diesel particulate. As the exhaust gas flows over the sensing element, soot is absorbed in the combs between the electrodes, eventually creating a conductive path. When the path is formed, it generates a current based on the voltage being applied to the element. The measurement process continues until a preset current value is reached. To avoid misleading readings, the sensor performs a regeneration where the soot is cleaned off by heating up the element, before the measurement phase begins. The amount of regenerations is based on vehicle strategy; when the calibrated number of regenerations is reached, the cumulative current readings are used to determine the amount of soot concentration in the exhaust gas which in turn determines the collection efficiency of the diesel particulate filter (DPF).
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P118B Buick?
- Faulty Exhaust Particulate Matter Sensor
- Exhaust Particulate Matter Sensor harness is open or shorted
- Exhaust Particulate Matter Sensor circuit poor electrical connection
How to Fix the DTC P118B Buick?
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 P118B Buick 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about P118B Buick Code
1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P118B in a Buick related to the Particulate Matter Sensor temperature not being plausible?
- Common symptoms include poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and the illumination of the Check Engine light.
2. What can cause the OBDII code P118B in a Buick related to the Particulate Matter Sensor temperature issue?
- Possible causes include a faulty particulate matter sensor, wiring issues, sensor calibration problems, or issues with the diesel particulate filter.
3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P118B in my Buick for the Particulate Matter Sensor temperature issue?
- Diagnosis involves using an OBDII scanner to retrieve the code, checking the sensor's wiring and connections, and possibly performing a sensor calibration or replacement.
4. Can I continue driving my Buick with the OBDII code P118B related to the Particulate Matter Sensor temperature?
- It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with this code as it can lead to further damage and reduced engine performance.
5. How much does it typically cost to repair the OBDII code P118B in a Buick for the Particulate Matter Sensor temperature issue?
- Repair costs can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but they can range from $200 to $600, including parts and labor.
6. Are there any DIY repair tips for fixing the OBDII code P118B in a Buick related to the Particulate Matter Sensor temperature?
- DIY tips include checking and cleaning sensor connections, inspecting wiring for damage, and ensuring the diesel particulate filter is functioning properly.
7. Can a faulty particulate matter sensor cause other problems in my Buick besides triggering the OBDII code P118B?
- Yes, a faulty sensor can lead to issues like increased emissions, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential damage to the diesel particulate filter.
8. How long does it typically take to repair the OBDII code P118B in a Buick related to the Particulate Matter Sensor temperature issue?
- Repair times can vary depending on the exact cause of the problem and the availability of parts, but it can generally take 1-3 hours at a repair shop.
9. Is it possible to prevent the OBDII code P118B from occurring in my Buick related to the Particulate Matter Sensor temperature issue?
- Regular maintenance, such as keeping the sensor and filter clean, can help prevent issues that may trigger this code.
10. Can resetting the Check Engine light resolve the OBDII code P118B in a Buick related to the Particulate Matter Sensor temperature issue?
- Resetting the light may temporarily turn it off, but if the underlying issue is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear.
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