AutoCodes – Generic – P242E

P242E Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 Circuit Intermittent

Quick Answer

The Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensors (EGTS) are variable resistors that measure the temperature of the exhaust gas. Common causes include Exhaust leaks, Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) 3, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 harness is open or shorted. 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: P242E indicates Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 Circuit Intermittent.
Common causes: Common causes include Exhaust leaks, Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) 3, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 harness is open or shorted.
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 13,225

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 26, 2021

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P242E Description

The Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensors (EGTS) 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 when the ECM detects that the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor resistance has changed greater than a calibrated amount in less than 1 s.

OBDII Code P242E - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 Circuit Intermittent - AutoCodes.com — P242E Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 Circuit Intermittent

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P242E?

Exhaust leaks
Faulty Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (EGTS) 3
Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 harness is open or shorted
Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 circuit poor electrical connection
Excessive particulate matter buildup on sensor
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P242E?

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 P242E 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

P242E Buick — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 Circuit Intermittent
P242E Cadillac — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 Circuit Intermittent
P242E Chevrolet — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 Circuit Intermittent
P242E Dodge — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent/Erratic Bank 1 Sensor 3
P242E Ford — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent/Erratic Bank 1 Sensor 3
P242E GMC — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 Circuit Intermittent
P242E Lincoln — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent/Erratic Bank 1 Sensor 3
P242E Mercury — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent/Erratic Bank 1 Sensor 3

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.