What are the common causes of P0196?

An engine oil temperature sensor A out of calibration. Resistance in the sensor A wiring. A low engine oil level. A clogged oil filter restricting flow. An ECM calibration mismatch.

Compare the sensor A reading to actual oil temperature. Check the engine oil level and condition. Inspect the sensor A connector and wiring. Test the sensor A circuit resistance. Replace engine oil temperature sensor A if it reads off. Clear the code and retest.

P0196

Engine Oil Temperature Sensor A Range/Performance

System: Fuel and air metering (P code)
Lamp: Check Engine Light
Category: Powertrain - Fuel/Air Metering

What it means

P0196 means Engine Oil Temperature Sensor A Range/Performance.

Where it lives

For P0196, the part to look at first is the sensor named here.

Check these first

An engine oil temperature sensor A out of calibration
Resistance in the sensor A wiring
A low engine oil level
A clogged oil filter restricting flow
An ECM calibration mismatch

What to do next

Compare the sensor A reading to actual oil temperature
Check the engine oil level and condition
Inspect the sensor A connector and wiring
Test the sensor A circuit resistance
Replace engine oil temperature sensor A if it reads off
Clear the code and retest

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Updated

Generic SAE J2012 definition. Last updated 2026-10-10.