Exhaust gases are byproducts of the engine burning the mixture of air and fuel to produce energy. As the spend fumes leave the engine and go into the exhaust system, the exhaust gas temperature (EGT) sensors gauge their temperature. These sensors send their readings to the engine control module (ECM) or powertrain control module (PCM).
The vehicle’s module will log a P0546 code if it gets the wrong signal from the EGT sensor.
What Does the P0546 Code Mean?
Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0546 indicates “Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit High Bank 1 Sensor 1.”
The code covers the EGT sensor located between the exhaust manifold and catalytic converter on the same side as the engine’s cylinder bank one.
The EGT sensor is a resistance temperature detector (RTD). Its electrical resistance shifts in response to the temperature of the gases it is measuring.
When the temperature rises, the RTD’s electrical resistance goes up. Conversely, a drop in temperature reduces the resistance. As the resistance shifts, so does the voltage drop across the sensor’s terminals. This change is sent to the PCM.
The EGT sensor’s resistance will change according to the temperature of the exhaust gases.
If the exhaust gases are too hot, they can damage the engine or turbocharger. The PCM keeps track of these gases through the readings from the EGT sensor. It will warn the driver about excessively hot exhaust gases and take steps to prevent damage to the engine.
The PCM regularly checks the exhaust gas temperature sensor. If the computer doesn’t get the right response, it will set the powertrain code P0546.
Note: The definition of code P0546 can differ according to the vehicle manufacturer. Check the appropriate repair manual or repair database for the exact code definition.
What are the Common Causes of the P0546 Code?
- Bad EGT sensor
- Bad PCM
- Problem with the connectors or wiring
What are the Common Symptoms of the P0546 Code?
- Illuminated check engine light
- Reduced engine performance
How to Diagnose the P0546 Code
The P0546 code is a generic powertrain code that various makes and models can log. However, this does not mean that there is a one-size-fits-all solution to identify its underlying problem.
If you’re not confident about diagnosing the problem, then it’s better to take your vehicle to an auto repair shop. Otherwise, you can go ahead and diagnose the issue yourself. Here is a video that can give you an idea of what the process might involve:
How to Fix the P0546 Code
Attempting to fix a P0546 code can become a challenging task if you don’t have the right tools and know-how to test the exhaust gas temperature sensor. In most cases, it’s best to leave the job to professionals.
But if you have the right tools, knowledge, and experience to resolve code P0546, make sure you consult a vehicle-specific repair manual or online repair database before you start.
Where to Get a New EGT Sensor to Clear Trouble Code P0546
Your vehicle may show signs of reduced engine performance as a result of erroneous readings from a failed EGT sensor. Fortunately, shopping for a replacement exhaust gas temperature (EGT) sensor at CarParts.com can help you solve this problem.
We have an extensive selection of top-notch EGT sensors that can help get your engine back in shape. All you have to do is enter your vehicle’s year, make, and model into our vehicle selector to start browsing our catalog of compatible EGT sensors for your ride.
You can also use our search filters to find a sensor that matches your preferences in terms of brand, price range, quantity, and more.
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