AutoCodes – Generic – P1197

P1197 Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 4 Performance Engine Running

Quick Answer

The exhaust gas temperature sensors are variable resistors that measure the temperature of the exhaust gas. Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Gas 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: P1197 indicates Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 4 Performance Engine Running.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Gas 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 24,258

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 Jul 24, 2021

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1197 Description

The exhaust gas temperature sensors are variable resistors that measure the temperature of the exhaust gas. The exhaust temperature sensor 1 is the first exhaust temperature sensor on 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 be set if the ECM detects that the difference between measured exhaust gas temperature and the estimated exhaust gas temperature is greater than a calibrated amount for greater than 1 s.

OBDII Code P1197 - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 4 Performance Engine Running - AutoCodes.com — P1197 Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 4 Performance Engine Running

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1197?

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

How to Fix the DTC P1197?

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 P1197 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 P1197 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1197 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P1197 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P1197 Audi — O2S Heater Circuit Bank 2 Sensor 1 Electrical Malfunction
P1197 BMW — Differential Pressure Sensor Intake Manifold Signal
P1197 Buick — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 4 Performance Engine Running
P1197 Cadillac — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 4 Performance Engine Running
P1197 Chevrolet — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 4 Performance Engine Running
P1197 Chrysler — Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 Slow Response
P1197 Dodge — Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 Slow Response
P1197 Ford — Key Off Voltage Low
P1197 GMC — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 4 Performance Engine Running
P1197 Infiniti — Low Input From Fuel Level Sensor
P1197 Jeep — Heated Oxygen Sensor Bank 1 Sensor 2 Slow Response
P1197 MINI — Differential Pressure Sensor Intake Manifold Signal
P1197 Nissan — Low Input From Fuel Level Sensor
P1197 Volkswagen — O2S Heater Circuit Bank 2 Sensor 1 Electrical Malfunction

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 P1197 Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P1197 (Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 4 Performance Engine Running)?

- Common symptoms include reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and illuminated Check Engine light.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P1197?

- Possible causes include a faulty exhaust gas temperature sensor, wiring issues, exhaust leaks, or a problem with the engine control module.

3. How can I diagnose the issue related to code P1197?

- Diagnose the issue by using an OBDII scanner to read the code, visually inspecting the sensor and its wiring, and performing electrical tests to check for continuity and resistance.

4. Can I continue driving with OBDII code P1197 active?

- While it may be possible to drive with this code active, it is recommended to address the issue promptly to prevent potential damage to the engine or catalytic converter.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P1197?

- Repair methods may include replacing the faulty exhaust gas temperature sensor, repairing damaged wiring, fixing exhaust leaks, or reprogramming the engine control module.

6. Are there any DIY tips for resolving OBDII code P1197?

- DIY tips include checking for loose or damaged wiring, ensuring proper sensor installation, and carefully following repair instructions from the vehicle's service manual.

7. Can a faulty exhaust gas temperature sensor cause other issues besides triggering code P1197?

- Yes, a faulty sensor can lead to incorrect fuel-air mixture, reduced engine efficiency, increased emissions, and potential damage to the catalytic converter.

8. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P1197?

- Repair times can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but fixing this code usually takes a few hours to a full day at a repair shop.

9. Will resetting the Check Engine light resolve OBDII code P1197?

- Resetting the Check Engine light may temporarily turn it off, but the underlying issue causing code P1197 will still need to be diagnosed and repaired to prevent it from reoccurring.

10. Is it safe to ignore OBDII code P1197 if the vehicle seems to be running fine?

- Ignoring the code may lead to decreased fuel efficiency, potential engine damage, and increased emissions, so it is recommended to address the issue as soon as possible.