Code
P1190
Other
P — Powertrain
Calibration Resistor Out Of Range
AI status
Completed
Completed
100%
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
- Read and record all codes and freeze-frame data. Note conditions when code set (temp, engine load, key on/off).
- Obtain correct wiring diagram and sensor calibration/specification from service information.
- Visually inspect sensor, harness, and connector. Repair any obvious damage or corrosion.
- 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.
- 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.
- Backprobe sensor signal while operating (if safe) and observe behavior. Perform wiggle test on wiring to check for intermittent connections.
- 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.
- If wiring and sensor test good, check ECU input circuitry and related grounds. Consider ECU diagnostic tests or replacement if service manual supports.
- After repairs, clear codes and perform a drive cycle to confirm fault does not return.
- 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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