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what does code p2185 for 2012 vw golf 2.5l gas engine mean

by Elvie Sauer Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago

Full Answer

What's the p2185 Volkswagen code?

P2185 VOLKSWAGEN Description This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is stored in the engine control module when the output from the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor is not as expected or missing.

What does the p2185 code on the ECT sensor mean?

If the ECT sensor 2 output voltage is less than a set value when the engine coolant temperature is high, the PCM detects a malfunction and a DTC is stored. | Need more information with the P2185 code?

What does the p2185 light mean on a Chevy Silverado?

Engine Light ON (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light) P2185 Meaning Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor 2 is a thermistor attached to the radiator. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) applies voltage (about 5 V) to the ECT2 signal circuit through a pull up resistor.

What does the diagnostic trouble code DTC mean on a VW?

This diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a generic powertrain code, which means that it applies to all 1996-newer vehicles (VW, Ford, Dodge, Chevrolet, etc.). Although generic, the specific repair steps may vary depending on make/model.

How do I fix error code P2185?

What repairs can fix the P2185 code?A new ECT sensor.ECT connector or harness.Cooling system leak repair and fill.Thermostat replacement.

What does P2185 mean?

Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit HighDiagnostic trouble code (DTC) P2185 stands for “Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit High.” This code sets when the powertrain control module (PCM) detects an electrical fault in the engine coolant temperature (ECT) circuit. The P2185 code is set when the PCM detects an electrical fault in the ECT circuit.

Where is the engine temperature sensor located?

0:311:41Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Location - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipNow some of the early models had two sensors in the same location. But you're looking for the oneMoreNow some of the early models had two sensors in the same location. But you're looking for the one with the two wires on it and it's down here under the egi valve. And it's coming at the view.

Where is the thermostat temperature sensor located?

In most cars, the primary ECT sensor (ECT sensor 1) is installed near the thermostat in the cylinder head or block or on the thermostat housing. A second coolant temperature sensor could be installed in another part of the engine, or in the radiator.

What is the engine coolant temperature sensor?

The Coolant Temperature Sensor is used to measure the temperature of the engine coolant. The readings from this sensor are then fed back to the engine control unit (ECU). This data from the sensor is then used to adjust the fuel injection and ignition timing.

How do I disconnect my coolant sensor?

With the engine and coolant entirely cooled down, disconnect the battery. ... Remove any plastic engine covers. ... Locate the coolant temp sensor. ... Partially drain the cooling system, or perform a coolant flush, if it is due. ... Disconnect the electrical connector from the sensor by pushing on the tab and pulling the connector.More items...•

What are the symptoms of a faulty coolant temperature sensor?

What Signs May Signal Your Coolant Temperature Sensor May Be Failing?Poor Fuel Economy. ... Irregular Temperature Readings. ... Black Smoke from Your Exhaust. ... Your Engine is Overheating. ... Your Check Engine Light is On.

How can you tell if your engine coolant temperature sensor is bad?

Following are the significant symptoms of a bad coolant temp sensor:Check Engine Light.Engine Overheating.Poor Fuel Economy.Poor Engine Performance.Broken Water Pump.Control of Cooling Fan.Black Smoke From Exhaust Pipe.

Is there a fuse for coolant temperature sensor?

There isn't one per se. There will be a fused wire with voltage to the instrument cluster (your owners manual should indicate which fuse), but the temperature sensor is providing a variable "resistance to ground," which the temperature gauge in the dash is reflecting.

How do I reset my thermostat?

Reset the Thermostat Common methods for resetting a thermostat include installing the battery backward for five seconds, pushing a recessed reset button with a pin or paper clip, or shutting off the breaker to the thermostat for 30 seconds.

How do you trick a thermostat?

So how do you do that? The trick is to use something to heat up the area around the thermostat. For example, taking a microwaved heating pad and putting it next to the thermostat for a couple of minutes should be enough to raise the air temperature to the point where the air conditioner will kick on.

How do I know if my temperature sensor is working?

1:005:43How to Test an Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe resistance at boiling temperature which is 212 Fahrenheit is supposed to be between 1760 ohms toMoreThe resistance at boiling temperature which is 212 Fahrenheit is supposed to be between 1760 ohms to two thousand three hundred and eighty ohms.

What causes code P2185?

What are the common causes of code P2185? Some common causes of code P2185 could include the following-. Damaged, burnt, shorted, disconnected, or corroded wiring and/or connectors in the #2 sensor’s wiring harness. Note that short circuits to battery positive is a common case of this code.

What Does Code P2185 Mean?

OBD II fault code P2185 is a generic code that is defined as “Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor 2 Circuit High”, or oftentimes more precisely as “Coolant Temperature Sensor at Radiator Outlet Signal High” and is set when the PCM (Powertrain Control Module) detects an abnormally high voltage either in the affected sensor itself, or in the affected sensor’s control/signal circuit (s).

Where is the P2185 sensor located?

The image above shows the location of the #2 engine coolant temperature sensor close to the outlet of the radiator on an E46 BMW application, but on many applications, this sensor can also be located in the bottom tank of the radiator. Note though that in all cases, the sensor will be located so that it is in direct contact with the engine coolant.

What is the code for coolant sensor?

Nonetheless, if we take the most common definition of code P2185 to be “Coolant Temperature Sensor at Radiator Outlet Signal High”, the function of the affected sensor is to monitor the temperature of the engine coolant at the radiator outlet, from where the cooled coolant is passed back into the engine.

How to know if your fan is P2185?

Some common symptoms of code P2185 could include the following-. Stored trouble code and illuminated warning light. Multiple additional codes, and particularly codes relating to the cooling system may also be present. Radiator fans may run consciously, or not at all regardless of the actual coolant temperature.

What is the code for a fuel injector?

However, be aware that not all car manufacturers follow this convention, which means that on some applications, code P2185 could refer to a sensor that is associated with other functions, such as fuel delivery, fuel injector pulse width management, or the operation of the heat gauge in the dashboard.

What is the code for coolant temperature sensor?

SPECIAL NOTES: It should be noted that some applications use multiple (more than two) engine coolant temperature sensors for different purposes, and in the case of code P2185, the affected engine coolant temperature sensor is usually associated with the radiator cooling fan (s). However, be aware that not all car manufacturers follow this convention, which means that on some applications, code P2185 could refer to a sensor that is associated with other functions, such as fuel delivery, fuel injector pulse width management, or the operation of the heat gauge in the dashboard. For this reason, it is imperative that the correct sensor be identified when this code appears on any given application to prevent misdiagnoses. END OF SPECIAL NOTES.

What does P2185 mean?

A code P2185 may mean that one or more of the following has happened: A bad connection at the #2 ECT sensor. An open in the ground circuit between the #2 ECT sensor and the PCM. A short in the voltage feed between the sensor and the PCM. A bad PCM (less likely)

How to check coolant sensor?

Does it read a logical number? If so, the problem is likely intermittent. Perform a "wiggle" test by wiggling the connector and harness to the sensor while watching the reading on the scan tool. Watch for any drop-outs. Drop-outs would indicate a bad connection. If the scan tool reads an illogical temperature, check the resistance of the temperature sensor. If it is out of specs, replace it. If it is in specifications, unplug the sensor and, using a fused jumper wire, jumper the two terminals of the connector together. The temperature reading should now be maxed out to above 250 degrees F. If not, there is likely a problem with the ground circuit or voltage supply.

Why does my 2.5L VW have a vacuum pump?

A vacuum pump leaking is one of the most common issues that occur in the 2.5L VW engines. A vacuum pump is crucial in engines for your brake system. It provides extra vacuum to the brake booster’s for power-assisted braking to function properly.

What is a 2.5 engine?

The Volkswagen 2.5 engine was first introduced in 1991 to 1995 in the Volkswagen Eurovan. The VW 2.5 engine didn’t make a return until 2005 and made up until 2014 in a number of different Volkswagen vehicles. These naturally aspirated engines feature 3 different versions: 109hp &, 148hp | 166 ft-lbs, & 168hp | 176 ft-lbs), all of which have 5 cylinders. Engines with 5 cylinders are normally known to have better torque than horsepower, due to the engine ratio of bore to stroke.

Why does my PCV valve fail?

The main reason a PCV valve fails is a diaphragm tear which will lead to leaks. On Volkswagen 2.5’s, this is not something that should happen more than once, unless you received a faulty diaphragm.

How reliable is the 2.5 engine?

Is the VW 2.5 engine reliable? Believe it or not, the 2.5 is one of the most reliable Volkswagen engines to date. The problems listed above are not major engine issues, like a leaking head gasket in the Vr6 engines or excessive oil consumption in the EA888 Gen 2 engines. There are many instances where these engines last anywhere from 150,000 miles to 200,000 miles. Something to mention, is that oil changes on these engines are paramount because these engines take in a lot of oil.

Why does my ignition coil fail?

Ignition coils can fail for many reasons: bad spark plug ignition cables, moisture intrusion, leaking valve covers, or improper spark plug gap. If the coils do happen to fail, 9 times out of 10, your engine will have a misfire in one of the five cylinders.

Is a 2.5 serpentine belt a problem?

Serpentine belts (also known as the drive belt or accessory belt) themselves aren’t a common problem, it is mainly the rollers/tensioners that are prone to failure. However serpentine tensioner failure in 2.5’s are not as common as the Vr6’s, but they can be an issue depending on what year 2.5 you have.

What Is The Volkswagen 2.5L Engine?

The Volkswagen 2.5L engine, or sometimes also referred to as the bulletproof engine , was quite famous during its time. The manufacturer introduced three different variations of the same engine, all of which had a difference in their HP output.

What is the least common issue with VW 2.5?

Well, the least common of all issues is the one that includes the timing chain. This technology has matured to the point that very little you hear about it, causing issues for the VW 2.5 engine.

Why does my vacuum pump fail?

There is only one reason that can cause the vacuum pump to fail: the rubber gasket is unable to seal it properly. With the engine temperature going quite high, it is normal for the gasket to wear down after a few thousand miles .

What cars had the MK5 engine?

The most notable vehicles were the 2005 MK5 Rabbit, the Jetta, the New Beetle, and the A5. Volkswagen even put the engine under the hood of the MK6 Golf. Although the vehicle selection was slim, the company ensured that many people received the engine as possible.

What could go wrong with timing chain?

Well, the only possible reason for it to become faulty is when it stretches too much.

What are the benefits of a 5 cylinder engine?

The main benefit of a five-cylinder engine is the added torque . Although it is unheard of, the torque on the engine is more than the HP. Plus, the engine sounds a lot smoother.

When did the 2.5L come out?

The 2.5L engine from Volkswagen is a strange one. The company released this in 1995, only for it to be discontinued in 1995. But the engine made a comeback in 2005 and was used until 2014. It is a solid engine, which was loved by thousands of people.

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