P1187 Buick Code - Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Voltage
Quick Answer
The P1187 Buick code indicates a problem with the Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Circuit, specifically a low voltage issue. Common causes include Faulty Engine Oil Temperature Sensor: The sensor itself may be malfunctioning, providing incorrect readings to the ECM, Damaged Wiring or Connectors: Wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit may be damaged, causing a poor connection or low voltage issue, Malfunctioning ECM: The engine control module (ECM) may be faulty, not receiving accurate sensor data and causing the low voltage reading. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
- What it means
- P1187 Buick indicates Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Voltage.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Engine Oil Temperature Sensor: The sensor itself may be malfunctioning, providing incorrect readings to the ECM, Damaged Wiring or Connectors: Wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit may be damaged, causing a poor connection or low voltage issue, Malfunctioning ECM: The engine control module (ECM) may be faulty, not receiving accurate sensor data and causing the low voltage reading.
- Severity
- High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
- Can I drive?
- Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
Fix Your Car Smarter
Try the New AutoCodes App!
Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.
Code P1187 Buick Description
The P1187 Buick code indicates a problem with the Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Circuit, specifically a low voltage issue. The engine oil temperature sensor is responsible for monitoring the temperature of the engine oil and sending this information to the engine control module (ECM). The ECM uses this data to adjust various parameters such as fuel injection timing, ignition timing, and turbo boost pressure to optimize engine performance and efficiency.
Common Causes of P1187 Buick
- Faulty Engine Oil Temperature Sensor: The sensor itself may be malfunctioning, providing incorrect readings to the ECM.
- Damaged Wiring or Connectors: Wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit may be damaged, causing a poor connection or low voltage issue.
- Malfunctioning ECM: The engine control module (ECM) may be faulty, not receiving accurate sensor data and causing the low voltage reading.
- Electrical Issues: Other electrical problems such as a blown fuse or short circuit in the sensor circuit can trigger this code.
- Engine Oil Quality: Poor quality or degraded engine oil can affect the sensor's performance and accuracy, leading to erroneous readings.
Symptoms of P1187 Buick
- Check Engine Light: The most common symptom associated with this code is the illumination of the Check Engine Light on the vehicle's dashboard.
- Decreased Fuel Efficiency: A faulty engine oil temperature sensor can lead to incorrect fuel injection timing, resulting in decreased fuel efficiency.
- Engine Running Too Cold: The engine may run colder than optimal, leading to poor performance and increased emissions.
- Engine Overheating: On the other hand, if the sensor provides inaccurate readings indicating the engine is too hot, this can lead to engine overheating.
- Rough Idling: The engine may experience rough idling or stalling due to improper sensor readings affecting engine parameters.
How to Fix P1187 Buick
- Diagnostic Scan: Use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve the specific trouble code and diagnose the issue with the engine oil temperature sensor circuit.
- Inspect Sensor: Check the engine oil temperature sensor for any visible damage or signs of malfunction. Replace the sensor if necessary.
- Check Wiring and Connectors: Inspect the wiring and connectors in the sensor circuit for any damage or corrosion. Repair or replace as needed.
- Test ECM: Test the engine control module (ECM) for proper functionality and communication with the sensor. Replace the ECM if it is found to be faulty.
- Clear Codes: Clear the trouble codes from the vehicle's ECM after completing the repairs and test drive the vehicle to ensure the issue has been resolved.
Cost to Fix P1187 Buick
The typical repair costs for addressing a P1187 Buick code related to the Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Voltage can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue. Generally, the cost of replacing the engine oil temperature sensor itself ranges from $100 to $200, including parts and labor. If additional repairs or replacements are needed for wiring, connectors, or the ECM, the overall cost can increase.
Need more information about the P1187 Buick code?
Need more information on how to fix the P1187 Buick code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals
Need Help with the Code?
Get the P1187 Buick code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area
Frequently Asked Questions about P1187 Buick Code
No Frequently Asked Questions about P1187 Buick Code found.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P1187 Buick OBDII Code
Code P1187 Buick comments
No comments found for this page.
Fix Your Car Smarter
Try the New AutoCodes App!
Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.