P242E Code - Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 Circuit Intermittent
Quick Answer
The P242E code indicates a problem with the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 Circuit Intermittent. Common causes include Faulty Sensor: The exhaust gas temperature sensor itself may be faulty, providing inaccurate readings to the ECM, Damaged Wiring Harness: The wiring harness that connects the sensor to the ECM may be damaged, causing intermittent connectivity issues, Loose Connections: Loose or corroded connections between the sensor and the ECM can disrupt the signal transmission, triggering the P242E code. 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
- P242E indicates Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 Circuit Intermittent.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Sensor: The exhaust gas temperature sensor itself may be faulty, providing inaccurate readings to the ECM, Damaged Wiring Harness: The wiring harness that connects the sensor to the ECM may be damaged, causing intermittent connectivity issues, Loose Connections: Loose or corroded connections between the sensor and the ECM can disrupt the signal transmission, triggering the P242E code.
- 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 P242E Description
The P242E code indicates a problem with the Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 Circuit Intermittent. This sensor is responsible for monitoring the exhaust gas temperatures in the vehicle's exhaust system. When this sensor detects irregularities or inconsistencies in the exhaust gas temperature readings, it triggers the P242E diagnostic trouble code (DTC). This code typically indicates that there is an intermittent issue with the circuit that connects the sensor to the vehicle's engine control module (ECM).
Common Causes of P242E
- Faulty Sensor: The exhaust gas temperature sensor itself may be faulty, providing inaccurate readings to the ECM.
- Damaged Wiring Harness: The wiring harness that connects the sensor to the ECM may be damaged, causing intermittent connectivity issues.
- Loose Connections: Loose or corroded connections between the sensor and the ECM can disrupt the signal transmission, triggering the P242E code.
- Malfunctioning ECM: A malfunctioning ECM can also cause intermittent issues with the exhaust gas temperature sensor circuit, leading to the code.
Symptoms of P242E
- Check Engine Light: The most common symptom associated with the P242E code is the illumination of the check engine light on the vehicle's dashboard.
- Decreased Fuel Efficiency: A faulty exhaust gas temperature sensor can cause the engine to run less efficiently, resulting in decreased fuel economy.
- Rough Idling: The engine may experience rough idling or hesitation when the sensor is malfunctioning, affecting overall engine performance.
- Increased Emissions: A malfunctioning exhaust gas temperature sensor can lead to increased emissions output, potentially causing the vehicle to fail emissions tests.
- Engine Misfires: In some cases, the engine may experience misfires or hesitation due to incorrect data from the faulty sensor.
How to Fix P242E
- Diagnose the Issue: Use a diagnostic scanner to retrieve the P242E code and perform further testing to pinpoint the exact cause of the problem.
- Inspect Wiring Harness: Check the wiring harness for any signs of damage or corrosion. Repair or replace any damaged wires as needed.
- Test Sensor: Test the exhaust gas temperature sensor to ensure it is functioning correctly. Replace the sensor if it is found to be faulty.
- Check Connections: Inspect all connections between the sensor and the ECM for tightness and corrosion. Clean or tighten any loose connections.
- Clear Codes: After repairing the issue, clear the P242E code from the ECM and test drive the vehicle to ensure the problem has been resolved.
Cost to Fix P242E
The typical repair costs for addressing the P242E code can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue and the vehicle's make and model. In general, the cost of replacing an exhaust gas temperature sensor ranges from $100 to $300, while repairing a damaged wiring harness or connections may cost between $50 to $200. Labor costs can add an additional $80 to $150 per hour, depending on the shop's rates and location.
Need more information about the P242E code?
Need more information on how to fix the P242E code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals
Need Help with the Code?
Get the P242E code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area
Code P242E Information for Specific Makes
- P242E Buick — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 Circuit Intermittent
- P242E Cadillac — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 Circuit Intermittent
- P242E Chevrolet — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 Circuit Intermittent
- P242E Dodge — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent/Erratic Bank 1 Sensor 3
- P242E Ford — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent/Erratic Bank 1 Sensor 3
- P242E GMC — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor 3 Circuit Intermittent
- P242E Lincoln — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent/Erratic Bank 1 Sensor 3
- P242E Mercury — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent/Erratic Bank 1 Sensor 3
Frequently Asked Questions about P242E Code
No Frequently Asked Questions about P242E Code found.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P242E OBDII Code
Code P242E 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.