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P1190 — Calibration Resistor Out Of Range

Detailed page for trouble code P1190.

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Code

P1190

Other P — Powertrain

Calibration Resistor Out Of Range

Brand: Other
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Page language: EN

Causes

  • Faulty sensor with internal calibration resistor out of tolerance
  • Open or short in sensor wiring harness
  • Corroded, loose, or contaminated connector terminals
  • Incorrect or intermittent reference voltage or ground to the sensor
  • Damaged or altered calibration resistor (aftermarket part or previous repair)
  • ECM/PCM input circuit fault or damaged solder joint

Symptoms

  • Malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) illuminated
  • Related sensor-driven systems degraded (rough idle, poor drivability, performance loss)
  • Intermittent faults or codes that clear and return
  • Incorrect gauge or diagnostic readings for the affected sensor
  • Possible hard start or limp-home mode depending on sensor function

What to check

  • Retrieve freeze-frame and full DTC data; note related codes and operating conditions
  • Identify the specific sensor associated with the code using vehicle service information and wiring diagrams
  • Visually inspect sensor and harness for damage, pinch points, corrosion, or repairs
  • Check connector terminals for corrosion, bent pins, or poor mating
  • Measure resistance across the sensor calibration pins at the connector and compare to manufacturer specification (if available)
  • Check reference voltage and ground at the sensor with key on engine off

Signal parameters

  • Calibration resistor measured in ohms — exact specification is manufacturer-specific (compare to service manual)
  • Sensor reference voltage (commonly 5 V or 3.3 V) — verify within ±10% of specification
  • Signal voltage output from sensor to ECU (varies by sensor type)
  • Continuity/ohms of harness between sensor connector and ECU pin (should be near 0 Ω)
  • Ground circuit resistance to battery negative (should be low, typically

Diagnostic algorithm

  1. Read and record all codes and freeze-frame data. Note conditions when code set (temp, engine load, key on/off).
  2. Obtain correct wiring diagram and sensor calibration/specification from service information.
  3. Visually inspect sensor, harness, and connector. Repair any obvious damage or corrosion.
  4. With ignition off, disconnect sensor and measure its internal calibration resistor (ohms) at the sensor connector. Compare to spec. If out of range, replace sensor.
  5. With connector connected and ignition on, check reference voltage and ground at the sensor connector. If reference or ground incorrect, trace and repair wiring/connection.
  6. Backprobe sensor signal while operating (if safe) and observe behavior. Perform wiggle test on wiring to check for intermittent connections.
  7. If sensor resistance at the connector is correct but code persists, measure continuity and resistance from the sensor connector to the ECU input pin. Repair high-resistance or open circuits.
  8. If wiring and sensor test good, check ECU input circuitry and related grounds. Consider ECU diagnostic tests or replacement if service manual supports.
  9. After repairs, clear codes and perform a drive cycle to confirm fault does not return.
  10. If replacement sensor is used, ensure it is the correct OE-calibrated part; some vehicles require calibration or programming after replacement.

Likely causes

  • Failed sensor (internal resistor drift or damage)
  • Broken/shorted harness conductor or pin pushed out of connector
  • Corroded connector causing high resistance in the circuit
  • Aftermarket replacement sensor with incorrect calibration value
  • Intermittent ground or reference voltage fault

Fault status

⚠️ Status
Controller detected the sensor calibration resistor value outside the expected range. May indicate a bad sensor, wiring/connector issue, or incorrect replacement part. Repair and confirm with functional test.
🟡 Repair difficulty: Medium
⏱️ Diagnostic time: 0.5-3.0 hours

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