What is OBD-II Code P2036 – Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit High Bank 2 Sensor 2
As a mechanic, one of the most common things that I see in cars that come to my garage is OBD-II codes. OBD-II stands for on-board diagnostic system, which is a computer system in your car that monitors the performance of various systems in the vehicle. OBD-II codes are a way for the computer in your car to communicate with you when something isn’t working as it should be. One common OBD-II code that I see regularly is P2036, which indicates that there is a problem with the exhaust gas temperature sensor circuit in Bank 2, Sensor 2. In this article, I’ll explain what this code means, what causes it, and how to repair it.
What is OBD-II Code P2036?
OBD-II Code P2036 is a generic trouble code that is defined as “Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit High Bank 2 Sensor 2.” This code is set when the on-board diagnostic system detects that the exhaust gas temperature sensor in bank 2, sensor 2, is reading a temperature that is higher than the specified range. Bank 2 refers to the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder number one, while sensor 2 refers to the second sensor downstream of the catalytic converter.
What Causes OBD-II Code P2036?
The most common cause of OBD-II Code P2036 is a faulty exhaust gas temperature sensor. The sensor may be damaged, or it may have failed outright. Other possible causes include wiring problems, such as a damaged wire or connector, or a problem with the power supply to the sensor. It’s also possible that there is a problem with the PCM (powertrain control module), which is the computer that controls the engine.
Symptoms of OBD-II Code P2036
There are several symptoms that you may notice if your car is experiencing a problem with the exhaust gas temperature sensor circuit. The most obvious symptom is that the check engine light will come on. You may also notice that your car is running poorly or that it is not accelerating as it should. If the problem is severe, you may even be able to smell that your car is running too hot.
How to Diagnose OBD-II Code P2036
The first step in diagnosing OBD-II Code P2036 is to use a scan tool to read the code and any other related codes that might be present. The next step is to visually inspect the exhaust gas temperature sensor and its wiring. Look for obvious signs of damage, such as a broken or frayed wire. If you don’t see anything obvious, you may need to use a multimeter to check the resistance of the sensor. A technician may also use a smoke test to check for leaks in the exhaust system.
How to Fix OBD-II Code P2036
The most common fix for OBD-II Code P2036 is to replace the exhaust gas temperature sensor. Other possible fixes include repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, replacing the PCM, or cleaning the catalytic converter. The specific fix will depend on the underlying cause of the problem and should be determined by a qualified technician.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I drive my car if it has OBD-II Code P2036?
A1. It’s not recommended to drive your car with a check engine light on, as there could be underlying problems that can cause significant damage to your car.
Q2. How much will it cost to fix OBD-II Code P2036?
A2. The cost of fixing OBD-II Code P2036 will depend on the underlying cause of the problem. The cost could range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars.
Q3. Can I fix OBD-II Code P2036 myself?
A3. It’s not recommended to try and fix OBD-II Code P2036 yourself if you’re not a qualified technician. This could lead to further problems with your car.
Q4. How long will it take to fix OBD-II Code P2036?
A4. The amount of time it will take to fix OBD-II Code P2036 will depend on the underlying cause of the problem. It could take a few hours to a few days to fix the problem.
Q5. Will my car pass emissions with OBD-II Code P2036?
A5. No, your car will not pass emissions if it has OBD-II Code P2036. You will need to fix the problem before taking it to an emissions testing facility.
Conclusion
OBD-II Code P2036 is a common problem in cars that can be caused by a faulty exhaust gas temperature sensor or wiring issues. If you notice your check engine light is on or your car is running poorly, it’s best to take it to a qualified technician to diagnose the problem and fix it before it causes further damage to your car. Remember to always take care of your vehicle and have regular maintenance checks to avoid having these problems occur.