P0110 moderate

Intake Air Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit

The P0110 code means the vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected: Intake Air Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit. This is a moderate severity code.

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Keep driving?
Yes, but fix soon
DIY difficulty
easy
Estimated cost
$15-$60 standalone; $50-$200 if part of MAF assembly
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Common Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light on
  • Poor cold-start performance
  • Slightly reduced fuel economy
  • Possible rough idle in cold weather

Probable Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)

  • Faulty IAT sensor Very High
  • Wiring damage or corrosion at connector High
  • Open or short in IAT signal circuit Moderate
  • Damaged MAF sensor housing (IAT integrated in MAF) Moderate

Step-by-Step Diagnostic Procedure

  1. Locate the IAT sensor (often integrated into the MAF sensor housing or in the intake duct).

  2. Check IAT sensor resistance: at room temperature (~70F) resistance is typically 2,000-3,000 ohms. Resistance decreases as temperature rises.

  3. Compare IAT reading on scan tool to ambient temperature. A reading of -40F or 300F+ indicates a circuit fault.

  4. Inspect connector and wiring for corrosion or breaks.

  5. If IAT is part of the MAF sensor, replacing the MAF fixes both.

Common Fixes by Vehicle

What techs usually find when diagnosing P0110 on specific vehicles — tap your vehicle for the fix and the exact part:

2009-2020 Ford F-150/Explorer 3.5L/5.0L Easy DIY

Intake air temperature sensor circuit malfunction. On Ford trucks, the IAT is integrated into the MAF sensor. Check the MAF/IAT connector for backed-out pins or corrosion. If the reading is erratic, replace the MAF/IAT assembly (Motorcraft DY-1350). Also verify the air filter box is properly sealed -- hot engine air entering the intake causes false readings.

Labor: 15-30 min
2009-2020 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 5.3L Easy DIY

The IAT sensor on the 5.3L is located in the intake air duct. Check the connector for corrosion from water intrusion. Test the sensor resistance -- should be approximately 2.5K ohms at 68F. If resistance is out of spec, replace with ACDelco 213-4663. Also check for a damaged air intake duct allowing engine bay heat to skew readings.

Labor: 10-15 min
2002-2015 Nissan Altima/Sentra 2.5L QR25DE Easy DIY

IAT sensor is integrated into the MAF on Nissan QR25DE. Check the connector at the MAF for moisture or corrosion. If the scan tool shows -40F or 300F readings, the sensor element has failed or there is an open/short in the circuit. Replace the MAF/IAT assembly (Hitachi MAF0031). Also check for a damaged air filter housing allowing unfiltered air in.

Labor: 10-20 min

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the IAT sensor do?

The intake air temperature sensor measures the temperature of air entering the engine. The ECU uses this to adjust fuel delivery and ignition timing since cold air is denser than warm air.

Sources

This page is built from documented references. Verify against your own service info before repair work.

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