Buick Excelle IAT Sensor Causing Power Loss and Rough Idle

Had similar issues with a 2013 Buick Verano last season. The intake air temperature sensor was indeed faulty, causing incorrect temperature readings which made the engine management system run rich. Main symptoms matched yours: Power loss, especially during acceleration, Rough idle and hesitation, Check engine light staying on, Poor fuel economy The air temperature sensor was sending wrong signals to the ECU, making it adjust the fuel mixture incorrectly. The temperature reading was stuck at -40 degrees, causing the system to compensate with excess fuel. The fix required replacing the complete air temperature sensor assembly. Not a major repair, took about an hour at the shop. The sensor is located in the air intake tract, usually near the air filter housing. Important to note: While the symptoms can be concerning, running with a bad temperature sensor for a short time typically wont cause permanent engine damage. However, its best to address it promptly since the improper air-fuel mixture can affect engine performance and efficiency. The repair resolved all symptoms immediately, engine ran smooth again, power returned to normal, and check engine light cleared after the new sensor calibrated.

Yes, I had that exact issue with my Buick Excelle! The IAT sensor replacement fixed everything. The car diagnostics were spot on showing incorrect air temperature readings. The temperature sensor swap made a huge difference, my engine runs perfectly now. Can you share what the repair cost you? I paid about 3 hours labor plus parts but wondering if I overpaid. Also curious if youve had any other sensor issues since the fix? The car runs great but Im keeping an eye on other potential problems.

The IAT sensor repair on my Verano cost €155 total, which included parts and about an hour of labor. This was fair considering the specialized diagnostic work needed to confirm the faulty intake air temperature sensor. Since getting it fixed, the engine has run flawlessly with no recurring sensor issues or check engine lights. The car diagnostics really helped pinpoint the problem quickly. Getting accurate air temperature readings now has made a noticeable difference in how the engine performs, especially during cold starts and acceleration. Three hours labor seems a bit high for this particular job, but costs can vary depending on the shop and how difficult access to the sensor was in your specific case. If youre monitoring for potential future issues, I recommend keeping an eye on fuel consumption and acceleration response. These are usually the first indicators if other engine sensors start acting up. The main thing is that your car is running properly now, these temperature sensors typically last quite a while once replaced.

Thanks everyone, wanted to share how this story ended. After getting recommendations, I took my car to a different shop. The mechanic confirmed the IAT sensor issue using their diagnostic tool. They quickly traced the engine issues to incorrect temperature readings. The whole repair took about 90 minutes, much faster than I expected. Parts and labor came to around 180 Euro total. Maybe paid a bit more than others, but the thorough diagnostic work gave me confidence in the fix. Been driving for 2 weeks now and what a difference! The engine runs smooth, no more power loss or rough idle. Check engine light has stayed off. Fuel economy is noticeably better too. Going to stick with this new mechanic, they took time explaining the air sensor problem and showed me the faulty part. Much better experience than my previous shop. Just glad to have the car running right again.