What is the P0184 fault number? What is the explanation for the Fuel Temperature Sensor “A” Circuit Intermittent failure? How can I fix the P0184 fault code What are the causes and symptoms of the P0184 error code?
What is the P0184 Fault code? What does it all mean?
If the powertrain control module, PCM detects that the voltage signal coming from the fuel temperature sensor/fuel composition sensor circuit is being detected, a code P0184 will be generated “A” It is intermittent. The “A” The description of circuit refers only to a circuit and not to a specific component. The word “circuit” is used in the code’s description to refer to a circuit rather than a specific component. “Intermittent” In the description, the code means that there is an unpredicted and occasionally unexpected malfunction in the system. Loose connectors, damaged wiring and relays are possible causes. It can be very difficult to repair intermittent faults. Intermittent faults are difficult to fix. Some cars set the code right away, while others take several driving cycles with the same fault.
The fuel temperature sensor is integrated with the fuel composition sensor in most vehicle applications. These sensors provide data to the PCM regarding the temperature and composition. It gathers information about the fuel’s ethanol, water, and other contaminants, and then calculates the temperature and sends it to the PCM via an electrical signal.
Temperature is the main factor that determines the fuel’s density. The fuel is denser the colder it is. The powertrain controller module (PCM), which monitors the fuel’s density, determines how much fuel is injected into each cylinder. This means that it must also regulate the fuel temperature. The PCM uses fuel temperature sensor values to optimize engine performance and efficiently burn fuel. The sensor’s voltage signal is higher when fuel is cold. It decreases as fuel heats up.
If the PCM detects an interruption in the signal from the fuel temperature/composition sensor, it sets fault code P0184. Specifically, if the PCM detects a temperature change exceeding ±10 °C (±18 °F) / 100 ms, it interprets it as an intermittent circuit fault.
P0184 fault codes can be found on vehicles made by Ford, Mitsubishi and Mercedes-Benz.
What causes the P0184 Fault code?
Fault code P0184 can be triggered by the following common causes:
- – Broken, damaged, fused or broken wires, or loose or corroded connections, as well as open or short circuit issues to sensor circuit A
- – In excess of chemicals in fuel, sensor readings can be erroneous. This could cause fuel to boil at lower temperatures which may cause sensor failure.
- The vehicle will not start if the fuel freezes because of inclement weather or water in the tank
- – Defective fuel temperature sensor
- – The PCM has a problem or must be reprogrammed (very unlikely).
What are the symptoms of P0184 Malfunction Code?
You may experience the following symptoms if your vehicle has a P0184 code:
- – Illumination for the check engine light
- If the fuel has been overheated or frozen, it will cause the vehicle to not start.
- – Engine misfires
- – Engine stalling
- – Hesitation / stumbling during acceleration
- – Increased fuel use
How do I fix the P0184 fault code?
The fuel temperature sensor measures the fuel temperature inside the fuel tank, fuel rail or fuel pipe of gasoline engines with heaters and diesel engines. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended testing procedures depending on the type of fuel and vehicle you’re using.
The following repairs may be able to resolve the P0184 fault code:
- Repair damaged, melted, or broken wires, or loose or rusty connections, or open or short circuit problems to sensor “A”.
- – Test the fuel temperature sensor, and replace it if it is not in specification
- – Replacing a bad fuel composition sensor (in some cars both sensors are integrated).
- Check the fuel tank. If necessary, top it up. If it is extremely cold, you should check for frostbite.
- – Reprogramming the PCM or replacing it (rarely).
How Serious Is the P0184 Fault Coding?
The vehicle will not start if it has too much water in its fuel, the ambient temperatures are below freezing, or the temperature sensor is defective. The engine could stall, misfire, or stumble if the fuel temperature is higher than the normal operating temperature. This malfunction should be fixed as soon as possible.
