P0113: Intake Air Temperature Sensor Circuit High Input
P0113 means the intake air temperature sensor signal is higher than the expected range, which the computer reads as implausibly cold or as an open circuit. The engine uses this reading to adjust fuelling and ignition timing for air density.
Can I still drive with P0113?
Yes
This is a minor fault. The computer substitutes a default temperature value, so the engine keeps running with slightly less optimal fuelling. Worth fixing, but not urgent and not a safety concern.
What you will actually notice
- Check engine light
- Hard starting, particularly when cold
- Rough idle or slight hesitation
- Modestly worse fuel economy
- Often no noticeable symptoms at all
Causes, ordered by how often they turn out to be the fault
1.Faulty intake air temperature sensor
Very commonOn many engines this sensor is built into the mass airflow sensor assembly.
2.Open circuit or broken wire in the sensor circuit
CommonProduces exactly this reading.
3.Disconnected or corroded connector
CommonFree to check and often the whole fix.
4.Sensor contaminated with oil or dirt
Less commonCleaning sometimes restores it.
5.Engine computer fault
RareDiagnosed only after wiring is proven good.
How to diagnose it, cheapest test first
Work down this list in order. The most expensive mistake with this code is replacing a costly part before ruling out a cheap one.
- 1
Inspect the sensor connector for damage, corrosion or disconnection
FreeA disconnected plug produces this code and costs nothing to fix.
- 2
Compare intake air temperature against coolant temperature on a cold engine
LowOn a fully cold engine both should read close to ambient. A wild difference implicates the sensor.
- 3
Measure sensor resistance and compare to specification
LowConfirms whether the sensor itself has failed.
- 4
Check circuit continuity back to the computer
ModerateFinds broken wires.
- 5
Replace the sensor
Low to moderateOn engines where it is integrated into the mass airflow sensor, the whole unit is replaced.
What the repairs typically cost
| Repair | Estimated range |
|---|---|
| Connector repair or reconnectionSometimes genuinely free. | $0 – $150 |
| Intake air temperature sensor replacementInexpensive as a standalone part. | $80 – $250 |
| Mass airflow sensor assembly replacementRequired where the two sensors are combined. | $150 – $450 |
| Wiring repairDepends on where the break is. | $100 – $350 |
Estimate only. Ranges vary widely by region, vehicle and shop rate, and are not quotes. Always get a written estimate before authorising work.
Notes for specific makes
Ford
Frequently integrated into the mass airflow sensor, which changes the repair from cheap to moderate.
Toyota
Usually a standalone sensor and among the less expensive repairs on this list.
Volkswagen / Audi
Often built into the intake manifold or charge pipe on turbocharged engines.
Common questions
Is P0113 serious?
No. It is one of the milder codes. The computer falls back to a default value and the engine continues to run acceptably.
Why does it say high input when the sensor reads cold?
These sensors work by resistance, and resistance rises as temperature falls. A broken circuit looks like infinite resistance, which the computer interprets as impossibly cold air.
Could a disconnected plug cause this?
Yes, and it is worth checking before anything else — particularly if the code appeared right after other work was done in the engine bay.
Not sure which of these applies to your car?
Describe what the car is actually doing and get a diagnosis narrowed to your vehicle, or find a shop near you.
AI-generated and informational only. This is not a diagnosis of your specific vehicle and does not replace inspection by a qualified technician.