AutoCodes – Generic – P142A

P142A Code - EGR Temperature Sensor 2 Intake Air Temperature 2 Not Plausible

Quick Answer

The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Temperature Sensors are variable resistors that measure the temperature of the exhaust gas at the inlet and outlet of the EGR cooler. Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Temperature Sensor 2, Exhaust Gas Recirculation Temperature Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Gas Recirculation Temperature Sensor 2 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: P142A indicates EGR Temperature Sensor 2 Intake Air Temperature 2 Not Plausible.
Common causes: Common causes include Faulty Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Temperature Sensor 2, Exhaust Gas Recirculation Temperature Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted, Exhaust Gas Recirculation Temperature Sensor 2 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 5,450

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 25, 2021

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P142A Description

The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Temperature Sensors are variable resistors that measure the temperature of the exhaust gas at the inlet and outlet of the EGR cooler. The Engine Control Module (ECM) supplies 5 volts to the EGR temperature sensor signal circuit and a ground for the low reference circuit. When the EGR temperature sensor is cold, the sensor resistance is high. When the EGR temperature increases, the sensor resistance decreases. With high sensor resistance, the ECM detects a higher voltage on the EGR temperature signal circuit. With lower sensor resistance, the ECM detects a lower voltage on the EGR temperature signal circuit.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set if the ECM detects that the EGR cooler temperature sensor 1 or 2 is greater than 20°C (36°F) different from Intake Air Temperature (IAT) sensor 2.

OBDII Code P142A - EGR Temperature Sensor 2 Intake Air Temperature 2 Not Plausible - AutoCodes.com — P142A Code - EGR Temperature Sensor 2 Intake Air Temperature 2 Not Plausible

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P142A?

Faulty Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Temperature Sensor 2
Exhaust Gas Recirculation Temperature Sensor 2 harness is open or shorted
Exhaust Gas Recirculation Temperature Sensor 2 circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P142A?

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 P142A 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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Information for Specific Makes

P142A Buick — EGR Temperature Sensor 2 Intake Air Temperature 2 Not Plausible
P142A Cadillac — EGR Temperature Sensor 2 Intake Air Temperature 2 Not Plausible
P142A Chevrolet — EGR Temperature Sensor 2 Intake Air Temperature 2 Not Plausible
P142A Ford — Conditions Incorrect for Secondary Air Self Test
P142A GMC — EGR Temperature Sensor 2 Intake Air Temperature 2 Not Plausible
P142A Lincoln — Conditions Incorrect for Secondary Air Self Test
P142A Mercury — Conditions Incorrect for Secondary Air Self Test

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 P142A Code

1. What does the OBDII code P142A mean?

P142A indicates that the EGR Temperature Sensor 2 and Intake Air Temperature 2 readings are not plausible, meaning the data from these sensors is inconsistent or out of expected range.

2. What are the common symptoms of the P142A code?

Symptoms may include a check engine light, reduced engine performance, rough idling, increased emissions, or decreased fuel efficiency.

3. What causes the P142A code?

Common causes include a faulty EGR temperature sensor, intake air temperature sensor, wiring issues, poor electrical connections, or software glitches in the engine control module (ECM).

4. Can I drive with a P142A code?

While the vehicle may still be drivable, ignoring the code can lead to higher emissions, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential damage to the EGR or intake systems over time.

5. How do I diagnose the P142A code?

Diagnose the code by scanning for additional fault codes, inspecting the EGR and intake air temperature sensors, checking wiring and connectors for damage, and testing sensor outputs with a multimeter.

6. How do I fix the P142A code?

Repairs may involve replacing the faulty EGR temperature or intake air temperature sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, cleaning the EGR system, or updating the ECM software if needed.

7. How much does it cost to fix a P142A code?

The repair cost varies, typically ranging from $100 to $300 depending on whether sensors need replacement or if there are wiring issues.

8. Can a dirty EGR valve cause the P142A code?

Yes, a clogged or dirty EGR valve can affect temperature readings and lead to the P142A code, as it disrupts proper sensor operation.

9. Does the P142A code affect emissions testing?

Yes, the P142A code can cause a vehicle to fail emissions testing due to increased NOx emissions from improper EGR function.

10. Do I need special tools to fix a P142A code?

Basic tools like a multimeter and an OBDII scanner are usually sufficient for diagnosis. Advanced tools may be needed for sensor testing or ECM reprogramming.