What is the P2185 fault code What is Engine Coolant temperature (ECT) Sensor 2 Circuit High malfunction description? How can I fix P2185 fault code What are the causes and symptoms for the P2185 fault code
What is the P2185 fault code? What does it signify?
A P2185 Code is a code that means “Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor 2 Circuit High” . This code is set when the powertrain control module, (PCM), receives a high voltage signal via the engine coolant temperature sensor.
Some vehicles may have multiple ECT sensor for different purposes. The P2185 fault code usually indicates that the sensor is associated with radiator cooling fan. It is important to note that the information could vary depending upon vehicle manufacturer and application. For the exact code definition, please refer to the relevant repair manual or repair database.
A thermostat controls the coolant flow and circulation in a fully functioning cooling system. It adjusts its temperature to allow for the proper temperature. The thermostat must be working correctly to ensure that hot coolant returns to the radiator. After cooling is completed, it will then return to the engine. This process will continue as long the engine is running.
As a preventative measure, however, the PCM will need to know the temperature at which the coolant is being sent from the radiator into the engine. This information is necessary so that the PCM can regulate the speed of the radiator fans as well as control the duty cycle. This sensor is located near the radiator outlet and provides the information to the PCM.
The ECT sensor, which is a thermistor, is supplied by a PCM with a 5 volt reference voltage. The coolant has a high resistance, and the sensor sends low current to its PCM via a special circuit. The temperature of the coolant increases, and the resistance of this sensor decreases. This special circuit also sends high currents to the PCM.
The PCM compares voltage signals from the sensor and data stored in its memory. The PCM calculates the required coolant temperature by comparing the voltage signal from ECT sensor with engine running time.
If the calculations are consistent, the cooling system can continue operating normally. The thermostat can be opened or closed, and the radiator fans can be activated or deactivated depending on what is needed.
If there is an inconsistency between the calculations and engine run time or coolant temperature, the PCM will store the P2185 code and assume that the PCM has a problem.
P2185 fault codes can be found on vehicles made by various manufacturers, including Ford, Audi, Volkswagen and Land Rover.
What is the P2185 Fault Code?
The following are the most frequent causes of the P2185 fault code:
- – Defective engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor
- ECT sensor 2 Circuit Damaged Wires and Connectors
- – Problems with the ECT sensor 2 circuit.
- Low coolant levels due to leaks
- Defective thermostat
- – Sub-industry use of low quality ECT sensors
- – Defective PCM (rarely)
What are the symptoms of the P2185 Fault Code?
These symptoms may be present if you own a vehicle that has the code “P2185”.
- – Illumination and control of the check engine light
- – Air conditioning problems
- – Radiator fans are not working as intended
- – Lower engine performance
- – Increased fuel use
- – Misfires and irregular engine running
- – The exhaust emits black smoke
- – The engine could run very hard or not start at any time
How to Fix the P2185 Fault Code
There are several repairs that can resolve the P2185 fault code:
- – Replacing faulty ECT sensors 2
- – Inspecting and repairing any damaged or rusty connections, as well as the wiring and connections to ECT sensors.
- – Coolant leak repairs
- – Topping up any coolant that isn’t available
- – Replacing the faulty thermostat
