Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2012 Scion tC Automatic TransFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
DTC P0111: Intake Air Temperature Sensor Gradient Too High: Description
- The intake air temperature sensor, mounted on the mass air flow meter, monitors the intake air temperature. The intake air temperature sensor has a built-in thermistor with a resistance that varies according to the temperature of the intake air. When the intake air temperature is low, the resistance of the thermistor increases. When the temperature is high, the resistance drops. These variations in resistance are transmitted to the ECM as voltage changes (See Fig. 1 above).
- The intake air temperature sensor is powered by a 5 V supply from the THA terminal of the ECM, via resistor R.
- Resistor R and the intake air temperature sensor are connected in series. When the resistance value of the intake air temperature sensor changes according to changes in the intake air temperature, the voltage at terminal THA also varies. Based on this signal, the ECM increases the fuel injection volume when the engine is cold to improve driveability.
| DTC No. | DTC Detection Condition | Trouble Area |
|---|---|---|
| P0111 | Either condition is met (2 trip detection logic):
|
Mass air flow meter sub-assembly |
Factory Service Tools
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.