P0185 Code: Fuel Temperature Sensor B Circuit Malfunction
🟢 Low severity · drivable
Safe to drive. The fuel temperature reading is missing, which may slightly affect cold starts and fuel economy.
What P0185 means
The fuel temperature sensor B tells the computer how warm the fuel is, and it's used alongside sensor A on vehicles that have two fuel temperature sensors. This code means sensor B's circuit has a fault, so the computer has no reading from it. The computer falls back on a default value, which can make fuel mixture slightly off.
Symptoms
- Check engine light is on
- Possible hard cold start
- Slightly worse fuel economy
- Usually no noticeable driving symptoms
Common causes
- most common: Faulty fuel temperature sensor B
- common: Damaged wiring or connector at the sensor
- less common: Corroded connector pins
- rare: Faulty engine computer (PCM)
How to fix it
| Fix | DIY? | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|
| Replace fuel temperature sensor B | Yes | $40–150 |
| Repair or replace damaged wiring and connectors | Yes | $10–60 |
Frequently asked questions
Can I drive with a P0185 code?
Yes. It's a sensor reading issue and won't leave you stranded, though cold starts may be slightly harder.
What's the difference between sensors A and B?
Some vehicles have two fuel temperature sensors, labeled A and B, that report fuel temperature to the computer for fuel delivery adjustments.
What is the most common cause of P0185?
A faulty fuel temperature sensor B, with damaged wiring close behind.
Related codes
P0180
P0180 Code: Fuel Temperature Sensor A Circuit Malfunction
P0186P0186 Code: Fuel Temperature Sensor B Range/Performance
P0187P0187 Code: Fuel Temperature Sensor B Circuit Low
Updated 2026-08. This page is informational and not a substitute for professional diagnosis.