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P2036 — Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Circuit High Bank 2 Sensor 2

Manufacturer-specificPowertrain (engine & transmission)

This code indicates that the engine computer has detected a voltage signal from the exhaust gas temperature sensor on Bank 2, Sensor 2 that is higher than the expected range. Bank 2 refers to the side of the engine opposite cylinder 1, and Sensor 2 is downstream of the catalytic converter (or diesel particulate filter). A high-voltage condition typically points to an open circuit, a failed sensor, or a wiring problem rather than an actual over-temperature condition.

Symptoms

What causes it — most likely first

1. Failed exhaust gas temperature sensor

The sensor itself has an internal open or has degraded, causing the signal voltage to stay at the high reference level. This is the most common cause of a high-circuit code.

2. Wiring open or damaged

A broken, chafed, or disconnected wire in the sensor signal or ground circuit will cause the computer to see a high voltage. Exhaust heat and vibration commonly damage nearby wiring.

3. Corroded or loose connector

Corrosion, bent pins, or a poorly seated connector at the sensor can create an open-circuit condition, producing a high-voltage reading at the PCM.

4. Exhaust leak near sensor location

A significant exhaust leak upstream of or near the sensor can alter readings and, in rare cases, contribute to sensor damage or abnormal signal behavior.

5. Engine computer (PCM/ECM) failure

An internal failure in the PCM's temperature-sensor input circuit is extremely rare and should only be considered after all wiring, connector, and sensor testing is exhausted.

How it's diagnosed

  1. Scan all codes and record freeze-frame data to confirm P2036 is current and check for related exhaust or emissions codes.
  2. Visually inspect the Bank 2 Sensor 2 exhaust gas temperature sensor connector and wiring harness for heat damage, chafing, corrosion, or disconnection.
  3. With the key on and engine off, back-probe the sensor signal wire and compare the reading to specifications; an abnormally high voltage near the 5V reference suggests an open circuit.
  4. Disconnect the sensor and check for proper reference voltage and ground at the harness connector to verify the wiring and PCM supply circuits are intact.
  5. Perform a continuity test on the signal and ground wires between the sensor connector and the PCM connector to rule out an open or high-resistance circuit.
  6. If all wiring and connector tests pass and the code persists with a new sensor, only then investigate the PCM input circuit as a last resort.

Code facts & related codes

SystemPowertrain (engine & transmission)
StandardizationManufacturer-specific (P1/B1/C1/U1)

Frequently asked

Can I drive with code P2036?

On gasoline vehicles the code often causes no drivability issues, but it should be addressed to avoid masking other problems and to pass emissions. On diesel vehicles, it can interfere with DPF regeneration and may trigger reduced power mode.

Does P2036 mean my exhaust is too hot?

No. A 'circuit high' code refers to the electrical signal voltage being too high, which usually indicates an open circuit or failed sensor. It does not necessarily mean the exhaust gas temperature is dangerously elevated.

Should I replace the PCM to fix P2036?

No. Replacing the PCM is almost never the correct fix for this code. The overwhelming majority of cases are caused by a failed sensor, damaged wiring, or a corroded connector. The PCM should be tested and ruled out only as a last step.

Where is Bank 2 Sensor 2 located?

Bank 2 is the side of the engine opposite the cylinder designated as cylinder 1. Sensor 2 is the downstream exhaust gas temperature sensor, located after the catalytic converter or diesel particulate filter on that bank.