AutoCodes – Volkswagen – P2185 Volkswagen

P2185 Volkswagen Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High

Quick Answer

This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is stored in the engine control module when the output from the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor is not as expected or missing. Common causes include Low coolant level, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) 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 Volkswagen indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High.
Common causes: Common causes include Low coolant level, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) 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 42,452

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 Jul 11, 2020

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

This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is stored in the engine control module when the output from the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor is not as expected or missing. The Engine Control Module (ECM) uses information from the Intake Air Temperature Sensor and Engine Oil Temperature Sensor to carry out a plausibility check on the signal. Engine Coolant Temperature Sensors are normally a negative temperature coefficient thermistor. The signal voltage drops as the engine coolant temperature increases. The signal from the sensor is used to adjust the ignition system rate of advance and fuel injection system duration for various operating conditions. A faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor may result in an engine over fuelling or not entering closed-loop control. The rate of ignition advance is reduced when the engine is hot to reduce the possibility of engine knock occurring.

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

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P2185 Volkswagen?

Low coolant level
Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) 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 Volkswagen?

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 Volkswagen 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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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 Volkswagen Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P2185 in a Volkswagen related to the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High?

The common symptoms include engine overheating, inaccurate temperature gauge readings, decreased fuel efficiency, and potential engine misfires.

2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P2185 in a Volkswagen indicating a high circuit for Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2?

The code may be triggered by a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor, wiring issues in the coolant temperature sensor circuit, or a problem with the engine control module (ECM).

3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P2185 in my Volkswagen indicating a high circuit for Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2?

Performing a thorough inspection of the coolant temperature sensor and its wiring, checking the coolant levels and system for leaks, and using a scan tool to monitor sensor data can help diagnose the issue.

4. Can I continue driving my Volkswagen with OBDII code P2185 related to Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High?

It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with this code as it may lead to engine overheating, potential damage, and decreased performance. It is best to address the issue promptly.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P2185 in my Volkswagen due to a high circuit for Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2?

Repair options include replacing the engine coolant temperature sensor, repairing any damaged wiring in the sensor circuit, or resetting the ECM after fixing the issue.

6. Is it possible to reset OBDII code P2185 in a Volkswagen related to Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High without fixing the underlying issue?

Resetting the code without addressing the root cause will only temporarily clear the error code. The issue will likely reoccur until the underlying problem is resolved.

7. Can a faulty thermostat cause OBDII code P2185 in a Volkswagen indicating a high circuit for Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2?

While a faulty thermostat can lead to coolant temperature issues, it is not a direct cause of this specific OBDII code. Focus on checking the sensor, wiring, and ECM for this particular fault.

8. Are there any DIY tips for troubleshooting OBDII code P2185 in my Volkswagen related to Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High?

You can start by visually inspecting the sensor and its wiring for any visible damage, checking coolant levels and system for leaks, and using a multimeter to test sensor resistance.

9. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P2185 in a Volkswagen due to Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High?

The repair time can vary based on the exact cause of the issue. Simple fixes like replacing the sensor may take less than an hour, while more complex wiring or ECM repairs could take longer.

10. Will OBDII code P2185 in a Volkswagen related to Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High cause the check engine light to illuminate?

Yes, this fault code will trigger the check engine light to illuminate on your Volkswagen's dashboard. It is important to diagnose and address the issue to prevent further damage and maintain optimal vehicle performance.