SPN 105 FMI 3 — Intake Manifold Temperature Circuit Voltage Above Normal
IAT high-voltage codes are open-circuit diagnostics before performance conclusions. Fueling and boost complaints chased while the IAT circuit was electrically open and reporting false cold air is the most documented misdiagnosis.

Fault Overview
SPN 105 FMI 3 indicates the intake manifold temperature sensor circuit voltage is above the normal maximum — an open circuit or high-signal class fault. Open signal wire, failed thermistor, unplugged connector after intake service, corroded terminals, and reference or ground anomalies are the primary causes. An open IAT circuit typically reports an extreme cold value that skews fueling density calculations and boost strategy.
Engine & Platform Coverage
Possible Causes
- 1.Open signal wire from damage near intake plumbing or brackets
- 2.Failed IAT thermistor with internal open element
- 3.Unplugged connector after intake or air filter service
- 4.Corroded terminals at IAT sensor connector
- 5.Reference or ground anomaly affecting sensor output
Wiring & Circuit Notes
Inspect the IAT sensor connector at the intake plumbing. Check for chafe near brackets and moisture in the connector body after wash events. Confirm connector is fully locked after any recent intake or air filter service.
DVOM Specs & Sensor Tests
Confirm 5V reference, ground, and signal at the IAT sensor connector. A cold-soak reading should approximate ambient temperature once the circuit is healthy. An open circuit often reads an extreme cold value — this is a circuit fault, not a true temperature reading. Resistance versus temperature charts are available from OEM service data for thermistor verification.
Diagnostic Flow — FSM Sequence
AI Diesel Tech enforces this evidence-gate sequence. Each gate must pass before advancing.
5 steps locked behind Technician Mode- 1Visual inspection of IAT connector — confirm fully locked after any recent intake service
- 2Verify 5V reference and ground at IAT sensor connector
- 3Check signal wire continuity from sensor to ECM
- 4Cold-soak resistance check versus OEM temperature chart if available
- 5Replace IAT sensor after circuit is proven clean
- 6Re-evaluate drivability complaints only after sensing is valid
Unlock the full evidence-gated diagnostic sequence, DVOM test steps, and repair procedures in Technician Mode.
Repair Steps
4 steps locked- 1Visual inspection of IAT connector — confirm fully locked after any recent intake service
- 2Verify 5V reference and ground at IAT sensor connector
- 3Check signal wire continuity from sensor to ECM
- 4Cold-soak resistance check versus OEM temperature chart if available
- 5Replace IAT sensor after circuit is proven clean
- 6Re-evaluate drivability complaints only after sensing is valid
Unlock full diagnostic steps, DVOM tests, and repair procedures.
Full Diagnostic Access
Verification steps, preventative measures, severity guidance, and legacy comparison are available in Technician Mode.
Start Diagnosing This Fault Now
AI Diesel Tech walks you through every evidence gate in the correct order. Choose the plan that fits your shop.
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Summary
SPN 105 FMI 3 is an open-circuit IAT diagnosis. The sensor circuit must be proven valid before any boost or fueling performance conclusions are drawn.