P2182
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 Circuit
Engine coolant temperature
Generic OBD-II
Medium
What it means
P2182 means the ECM sees an out-of-range or faulty signal from the second engine coolant temperature sensor circuit. A wrong coolant reading can upset cold-start fueling, cooling-fan control, and fuel economy. The usual causes are a failing sensor, or wiring and connector problems in its circuit, rather than an actual overheating engine.
Medium
Can I keep driving? The engine usually runs, but a wrong coolant reading can cause cold-start, fuel-economy, or cooling-fan issues; get it checked so overheating doesn't go unnoticed.
Common symptoms
What you'll notice
- Check-engine light on
- Cooling fans running constantly or not at all
- Hard cold starts or rough cold running
- Poor fuel economy
- Temperature gauge reading inaccurately
Common causes
Most likely first
- Faulty engine coolant temperature sensor 2Likely
- Open, shorted, or corroded wiring in the sensor circuitCommon
- Poor connector or electrical connection at the sensorCommon
- Low coolant level exposing the sensorLess often
- Stuck thermostat skewing readings (less common)Less often
How to diagnose & fix
Work through it in order
- Read freeze-frame data, then check the sensor 2 connector for a steady 5-volt reference and good ground.
- Inspect the wiring and connector for opens, shorts, and corrosion.
- Compare the sensor's resistance and reading against actual coolant temperature; replace it if out of spec.
- Verify coolant level and thermostat operation.
- Clear the code and retest.
FAQ
Quick answers
Is it safe to drive with P2182?+
Usually yes, but because the ECM may be using a wrong coolant temperature it can misjudge fan control and fueling. Check the coolant level and have it repaired so a real overheat isn't masked.
Can I just clear P2182?+
You can, but it returns if the sensor or wiring is faulty. Confirm the sensor reads correctly before clearing.
Related codes
Often seen with P2182
Read & clear P2182 yourself
Scan your car, confirm the code, and clear it once it's fixed — with OBD DashX on your phone.
✓ Verified name — SAE J2012 / ISO 15031-6Guidance reviewed by OBD DashX