AutoCodes – Generic – P2185

P2185 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High

Quick Answer

Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor 2 is a thermistor attached to the radiator. Common causes include Low coolant level, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, Stuck or leaking thermostat. 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: P2185 indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High.
Common causes: Common causes include Low coolant level, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, Stuck or leaking thermostat.
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 43,142

How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium

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 Jun 14, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P2185 Description

Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor 2 is a thermistor attached to the radiator. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) applies voltage (about 5 V) to the ECT2 signal circuit through a pull up resistor. As the engine coolant temperature cools, ECT sensor 2 resistance increases, and the PCM detects a high signal voltage. As the engine coolant warms, the sensor resistance decreases, and the PCM detects a low ECT2 signal voltage. If the ECT sensor 2 output voltage is less than a set value when the engine coolant temperature is high, the PCM detects a malfunction and a DTC is stored.

OBDII Code P2185 - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High - AutoCodes.com — P2185 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2185?

Low coolant level
Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor
Stuck or leaking thermostat
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P2185?

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 P2185 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 P2185 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P2185 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P2185 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P2185 Acura — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High Voltage
P2185 Audi — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High
P2185 BMW — Coolant Temperature Sensor At Radiator Outlet Signal High
P2185 Chrysler — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High
P2185 Dodge — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High
P2185 Ford — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High
P2185 Honda — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High Voltage
P2185 Volkswagen — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High

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 P2185 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P2185?

- Common symptoms include the Check Engine light coming on, engine overheating, poor fuel economy, and potential issues with the vehicle's heater.

2. What does the OBDII code P2185 indicate?

- OBDII code P2185 indicates a problem with the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit, specifically a high voltage condition.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P2185?

- Possible causes include a faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, a wiring issue in the sensor circuit, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a problem with the vehicle's cooling system.

4. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P2185?

- Diagnosing the cause involves checking the coolant level and condition, testing the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor with a multimeter, inspecting the sensor wiring for damage, and ensuring the thermostat is functioning correctly.

5. Can I continue driving with OBDII code P2185 present?

- It is generally not recommended to continue driving with this code, as it can lead to engine overheating and potential damage. It's best to address the issue promptly.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P2185?

- Repairing the code may involve replacing the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, repairing any damaged wiring, replacing the thermostat if necessary, or addressing any cooling system issues.

7. Is it possible to reset OBDII code P2185 without fixing the underlying issue?

- While clearing the code temporarily may be possible using an OBDII scanner, the Check Engine light is likely to come back on if the underlying issue is not resolved.

8. How important is the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor for vehicle operation?

- The Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor is crucial for monitoring the engine's temperature and ensuring optimal performance. Ignoring issues with this sensor can lead to overheating and engine damage.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P2185 at home?

- Depending on their skill level, a DIY enthusiast may be able to diagnose and repair OBDII code P2185 at home by following repair guides and using basic tools.

10. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P2185?

- The repair time for OBDII code P2185 can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours to diagnose and fix the problem.