Code Definition

P1160 — Intake AIr Temperature sensor short to ground

System: Powertrain  |  Type: Manufacturer-Specific  |  Make: Audi

About P1160

P1160 is a manufacturer-specific powertrain diagnostic trouble code recorded for Audi vehicles. It belongs to the P-prefix family of codes, which covers engine, transmission, emissions, or fuel-system faults.

When P1160 is stored, the module has detected a short-circuit (voltage pulled to ground or to supply) in the monitored circuit; and a sensor-related fault — the reported value from the named sensor is out of spec.

Scanning & clearing: A generic OBD-II scan tool will usually read and clear powertrain (P) codes. For live data, freeze-frame capture, and bi-directional tests you may need a more capable scan tool that supports the vehicle's ECM protocol.

P1160 is a manufacturer-specific code. The same code string on a different make may have a different meaning. Always confirm the code's definition against the vehicle's service information for the specific make and model under test.

Code Information

The Intake Air Temperature (IAT) sensor is a negative temperature coefficient thermistor that reports the temperature of the air entering the engine to the Engine Control Module (ECM). The ECM feeds the sensor with a reference voltage through an internal pull up resistor and measures the voltage remaining at the signal pin, so a cold sensor with high resistance returns a high signal voltage while a hot sensor with low resistance returns a low signal voltage. DTC P1160 is stored when the ECM sees the IAT signal pulled to, or very close to, zero volts, a condition electrically indistinguishable ...

Join TaT to view the complete code information and diagnostic details.

Quick Facts