You must be familiar with DTC error codes for engines especially when it comes to the 6.0 Powerstroke. In this article, we will talk about the P0197 on 6.0 Powerstroke, which appears when the engine oil temperature becomes low. There are some specific causes of that error code and some ways to troubleshoot it.
Error codes are indicators that appear when your car is having some issue. If you own a car, you must know the error codes that indicate specific problems and the correct procedure to overcome the situation. Let us see what code P0197 is on the 6.0 Powerstroke and how to fix it.
Why does 6.0 Powerstroke face the P0197 error so frequently?
Even though 6.0 Powerstroke engines are powerful, your car may face several problems due to oil pressure. The 6.0 Powerstroke engine runs on very high oil pressure. Sometimes excessive pressure can cause leaks leading to the P0197 code.
What does the Code P0197 on 6.0 Powerstroke mean?
The P0197 code is the error code for Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Circuit Low. This error code appears when the sensor detects a low powertrain control module (PCM). The P0197 error can happen on a 6.0 Powerstroke because of the extreme fuel running.
What are the causes of the P0197 error?
There are a few reasons why you might face the P0197 error situation. The issues that trigger the engine and show the code are technical. You must be wondering if the causes are too serious. The seriousness depends on the type of issue. It is essential to know the right reason. The following are some causes of the error code P0197 6.0 power stroke:
Low Engine Oil Temperature
Low engine oil temperature can be a serious issue if you do not take instant action. When the engine oil temperature gets too low, the P0197 error code appears. This error means that the engine is running at a low temperature. You should immediately stop the car and check for issues. A high engine oil temperature is also problematic we discussed why the P0198 code appears in the 6.0 Powerstroke article.
Faulty EOT Sensor
The Engine Oil Temperature (EOT) sensor is a thermistor that detects and shows any changes in the temperature. A faulty EOT sensor may show false information about the temperature causing the P0197 error. This issue is not very serious as it does not involve any engine issue; it is just a false reading.
Faulty PCM
The Powertrain Control Module may receive wrong information from faulty sensors. The PCM shows you the P0197 error code when the EOT sensor stops working.
EOT Short Circuit
The Engine Oil Temperature circuit can become faulty and heat the engine. Wires may get misplaced and blow out. For these issues, you can also get the P0197 error code.
How does natural temperature cause the P0197 error code?
The oil temperature won’t be able to heat up properly when it is freezing outside. In winter, when it’s cold, and the temperature drops too low, it can trigger the car’s engine. As a result, you can also notice P0197 DTC error codes sometimes caused by the natural weather.
Where is the engine oil temperature sensor located?
Our car’s built-in diagnostic system stores all the possible error codes. Whenever there is an issue, you get the signal. The P0197 error code appears on the screen located on the dashboard under the steering wheel. The P0197 engine oil temperature sensor location is in the cylinder head or engine block. The sensor is on the engine side, inside the thermostat housing. To check the sensor, you have to open the engine cover.
What are the symptoms of the P0197 code?
There is a check engine light on your dashboard. This light works as an indicator when the car is overheating, or the oil pressure is low. The Check Engine Light will turn on when the P0197 error appears. This is the only symptom you shall notice when there is an issue. Other problems go through diagnosis using the system
How to diagnose the P0197 error code?
The issue with the P0197 error code is not something you can repair without assistance. The best thing to do is call a mechanic for damage repair. The mechanic will open the necessary parts carefully and then use a tool to scan the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) on the sensor. After detecting the issue, you need to check all the components. The problem is either with the wires or the sensor itself. If the sensor is faulty, you should get a new one. If the sensor works, the mechanics look more into the wires. The wires should be detached and carefully observed for any damage.
Even though it is easy for the mechanics to diagnose the error code, there are common mistakes they make. Diagnosing is not difficult but getting to the core of the issue is.
Common mistakes we make while diagnosing the P0197 error code:
Not checking the PCM voltage
Sometimes mechanics start repairing the PCM instead of checking the voltage. PCM voltage can sometimes be the problem. This problem does not require replacing the whole sensor.
Replacing the sensor without checking the EOT sensor
Another common mistake is ignoring the EOT sensor. Sometimes the EOT sensor has some issues which you can fix or repair. You don’t have to replace the EOT sensor right away in that case.
Not checking for engine fuse
Sometimes the main problem is in the engine fuse that causes errors. This is a serious issue when the mechanic starts looking for other issues before checking the engine fuse. Ask the mechanic to check the engine fuse before checking the other components.
Make sure you check the issue thoroughly, so there are no mistakes while diagnosing.
How to repair the P0107 error code, and how much does it cost?
You can never avoid the P0107 error code. Even if the issue is not serious, you still have to deal with the error code and fix it. It may cost you $100 – $200 to repair the P0197 error. Let’s see how you deal with P0197 on the power stroke.
Repairing PCM
When there is a PCM failure, it causes the error code. Repair the PCM immediately. You can reboot the PCM by holding the info button for more than 10 seconds and selecting the reset option.
Fixing the EOT circuit issue
Bad wiring or blown-out circuit can cause P0197 errors. The wires should be rearranged and fixed. If there is a blowout, you must replace the circuit with a new one. Try to figure out which wire is the problem and reconnect with a new circuit.
Repairing faulty sensor
Faulty sensors will display false information about car oil temperature. The sensor should be fixed so it can detect correct data. You must call a mechanic to repair the faulty sensor, and it may cost you $100 to $120 per hour.
Replacing the EOT sensor
The EOT can permanently become damaged. In that case, replace and change the sensor. There is no way to fix an EOT sensor, so you must buy a new one. You may need assistance in replacing the EOT sensor.
How serious is the P0197 error code, and what will happen if we don’t fix it?
The P0197 error code on the 6.0 Powerstroke can be serious, depending on the issue. False readings or faulty sensors lead to the error code, but these issues do not cause harm to your car.
However, if the problem is related to the engine or oil pressure, this can be very dangerous. If you don’t stop your car or fix the issue before it’s too late, your car can blow up. You should take the error code seriously, even if it does not cause any harm. Fix the issue as soon as possible!
The P0197 error code indicates issues that are both serious and minor. Engines like Ford, Nissan Maxima, Nissan Murano, and Jeep Wranglers are likely to get this error code. In all cases, you must take your car to the nearest repair shop and get rid of the problem.
I hope this article will help you know everything about the p0197 error code on the 6.0 power stroke and how to fix it! People usually panic when any error codes show up in their cars. Of course, it’s an alert that you should be worried about, but you must know this issue has a solution.
Last Updated on July 27, 2024 by Rifen