P0182 — Fuel Temperature Sensor A Circuit Low — 5.9 Cummins 24-Valve (VP44)
Fuel Temperature Sensor A Circuit Low
What it means
On the 5.9L Cummins 24-valve VP44 (1998.5–2002) the ECM strategy does not use a fuel temperature sensor, so P0182 is not a valid/used code on this platform. The generic definition is a voltage from the fuel temperature sensor lower than expected. Typical on this platform: the 5.9L Cummins 24-valve (VP44) has no fuel temperature sensor in the ECM strategy; the code is not used on this platform.1
Most likely causes
- Code not applicable to this platform; no fuel temperature sensor in ECM strategy — The VP44 system on this engine has no fuel temperature sensor. Source notes the code is not used on this platform.1
- Scanner / software misinterpretation or non-Chrysler enhanced code set — Generic OBD-II definition may be reported by aftermarket tools even though the Cummins ECM does not monitor fuel temperature.1
- Wiring / ECM data corruption causing spurious code — A low-voltage fault indication can be a wiring or ECM data issue rather than a sensor fault, given the sensor is not present.1
How to diagnose
- Verify platform and ECM calibration: confirm 5.9L Cummins 24-valve VP44 1998.5–2002 and that the code is not in the factory Chrysler enhanced list.
- Check scan tool: ensure tool is using Chrysler enhanced P-codes; generic SAE J2012 may display unsupported codes.
- Inspect for recent ECM reflashes, aftermarket tuning, or non-OEM modules that could introduce unsupported PIDs.
- Clear code and monitor for reoccurrence under normal driving; if it does not return, treat as spurious.
- If code persists, check ECM power/ground and harness integrity for electrical noise or corruption rather than a fuel temp sensor.
- Document findings; no fuel temperature sensor exists to test on this platform.
Parts and tools you may need
- OBD-II scanner with Chrysler enhanced code support
- Digital multimeter
- Wiring diagrams for 1998.5–2002 Ram 2500/3500 Cummins
- Service information for VP44 ECM strategy
Tools you’ll need
- OBD-II scan tool — Confirms the code is unsupported on the 5.9L Cummins 24-valve VP44 and checks for Chrysler enhanced vs generic SAE J2012 reporting.
- digital multimeter — Verifies ECM power, ground, and harness integrity to rule out electrical noise or data corruption causing a spurious P0182.
- service information database — Validates that the factory Chrysler enhanced code list for 1998.5–2002 VP44 does not include a fuel temperature sensor or P0182.
Rough cost and difficulty
| Likely repair | Parts | Shop labor | Who usually does it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shop diagnosis | — | 1–2 hrs | Shop |
| Wiring or connector repair | $10–$100 | 1–4 hrs | DIY with tools and a manual |
Typical US independent-shop figures; labor runs about $120–$180 per hour (dealers charge more). Confirm the diagnosis before buying parts.
When to see a pro
If the code returns consistently with a Chrysler-enhanced scanner, have a diesel technician verify ECM calibration and scan tool compatibility. Do not chase a non-existent fuel temperature sensor.
Check for recalls
Recalls are tied to your truck’s VIN, so check yours directly: enter the VIN at NHTSA’s recall lookup. Open safety recalls are repaired free at a dealer.
Sources
Spotted an error, or something missing? Tell us
Run a 5.9 Cummins 24-Valve (VP44)? This goes straight to the editor — it is not published.