What Does P00A2 Mean?
The PCM has detected that the charge air cooler temperature sensor circuit on bank 2 is reading below the minimum expected voltage threshold, indicating a low-circuit condition. This is typically caused by a short to ground in the sensor or wiring, resulting in the PCM seeing an implausibly high temperature value (for NTC thermistors, low resistance = low voltage = high temperature reading). The PCM will likely use a default temperature value and may reduce boost pressure as a protective measure.
Common Causes
35%
Charge air cooler temperature sensor internally shorted (low resistance)
30%
Signal wire shorted to ground due to chafing or damaged insulation
20%
Moisture or corrosion in the sensor connector creating a low-resistance path to ground
15%
PCM internal pull-down circuit fault on the sensor input
Diagnostic Steps
1
Read the bank 2 CAC temperature sensor PID — if it shows an extremely high temperature (e.g., 280°F+) with engine cold, the circuit is shorted low.
2
Disconnect the CAC temperature sensor on bank 2 and check if the PID jumps to -40°F (open circuit default). If it does, the short is in the sensor itself. If the reading stays high, the short is in the wiring.
3
Measure sensor resistance with the sensor disconnected — compare to manufacturer spec (typically 2–3 kΩ at 68°F). A reading near 0 Ω confirms an internally shorted sensor.
4
With the sensor unplugged, check resistance from the signal wire (harness side) to chassis ground — it should be infinite. Any measurable resistance indicates a wire-to-ground short.
5
Inspect the wiring harness routing for areas where it contacts metal brackets, sharp edges, or exhaust components that could damage insulation.
Estimated Repair Cost
$60 - $300
Parts + labor, varies by vehicle and location
The PCM has detected that the charge air cooler temperature sensor circuit on bank 2 is reading below the minimum expected voltage threshold, indicating a low-circuit condition. This is typically caused by a short to ground in the sensor or wiring, resulting in the PCM seeing an implausibly high tem...
The most common cause of P00A2 (Charge Air Cooler Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Bank 2) is: Charge air cooler temperature sensor internally shorted (low resistance)
Typical repair costs for P00A2 range from $60 to $300, depending on the vehicle, location, and whether you do it yourself or go to a shop.
The PCM will likely reduce boost to protect the engine from perceived overheating of charge air. Driving is safe but performance will be noticeably reduced. Not an emergency but should be repaired to restore full engine performance.
Start by connecting an OBD2 scanner to read the code and any freeze frame data. Then follow the diagnostic steps specific to P00A2 to identify the root cause.
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Quick Info
Category
Powertrain
System
Forced Induction / Turbocharger System
Difficulty
Type
Generic (SAE)
Recommended Tools
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