OBD-II Code P0110 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

P0110 means there's a malfunction in the Intake Air Temperature (IAT) sensor circuit. The IAT sensor tells your car's computer how hot or cold the incoming air is. The computer uses this to fine-tune the fuel mixture for best performance. A faulty IAT reading won't usually cause major drivability problems. You might notice slightly rough idle or minor changes in fuel economy.

Affected Models

All vehicles 1996+
Common in Ford Explorer
Common in Honda Accord
Common in Toyota Corolla
Common in Chevrolet Impala

Common Causes

Faulty IAT sensor that has failed or drifted out of range
Corroded or damaged wiring in the IAT sensor circuit
Poor electrical connection at the IAT sensor connector
IAT sensor contaminated with oil or debris from the air intake
Open or short circuit in the signal wire between the sensor and the computer

How to Fix It

Locate the IAT sensor. On many vehicles it's built into the MAF sensor housing in the air intake tube. On others it's a separate sensor threaded into the intake manifold.

Check your owner's manual or search online for the IAT sensor location on your specific vehicle.
Unplug the electrical connector from the IAT sensor and inspect it. Look for green corrosion, bent pins, or moisture inside the connector. Clean with electrical contact cleaner.

A dirty or corroded connector is the most common cause of this code. Cleaning it may be all you need.
Check the wiring from the connector back toward the engine computer. Look for frayed insulation, bare wires, or damage from heat or rodents.

The wires often run near hot engine parts. Heat damage to the insulation can cause intermittent shorts.
Replace the IAT sensor if the wiring looks fine. It usually unscrews or unclips from the intake. Match the replacement to your exact year, make, and model.

IAT sensors are inexpensive, typically $10-$30. If it's built into the MAF sensor, you may need to replace the whole MAF unit.
Clear the code with an OBD-II scanner and drive normally. This code should not return after replacing the sensor. If it does, the wiring needs professional attention.

Most auto parts stores will lend you a scanner for free to clear the code.

When to Call a Professional

This is usually a simple fix you can handle yourself. But if replacing the sensor doesn't clear the code, see a mechanic. Wiring faults in the circuit may need professional tracing with a multimeter. Diagnosis costs about $80-$150. Sensor replacement by a shop runs $80-$200 including labor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is P0110 a serious code?

No, it's one of the less serious OBD-II codes. Your car will still run and drive fairly normally. Fuel economy might drop slightly and idle may be a bit rough. There's no risk of engine damage from this code. But you should still fix it to pass emissions tests and restore full efficiency.

Can I pass emissions with a P0110 code?

No, any active check engine light will fail an emissions test. Even though P0110 is minor, the light must be off to pass. Fix the issue and drive for a few days before the test. The car's computer needs time to run self-tests after a code is cleared. Most states require all readiness monitors to complete before testing.

Where is the IAT sensor located?

It depends on your vehicle. On many modern cars it's built into the MAF sensor in the air intake tube. On older vehicles it's a separate sensor screwed into the intake manifold. Some vehicles have it in the air filter box housing. Check your owner's manual or search for your specific car online.