1995-1998 Eagle Talon Engine Intake Manifold Temperature Sensor Replacement Guide
A bad intake temperature sensor can cause poor performance and fuel economy in your Talon.
- A faulty IAT sensor commonly causes a check engine light with codes like P0110, P0112, or P0113.
- Symptoms include rough idle, poor gas mileage, and hesitation, which can mimic other engine problems.
- Replacement is a simple, low-cost DIY job located on the intake manifold or piping.
- A quality aftermarket brand like Standard Ignition is a reliable and cost-effective alternative to OEM for this part.
Is a bad Intake Air Temperature Sensor affecting your Talon?
If your 1995-1998 Eagle Talon is experiencing issues like a rough idle, poor gas mileage, or hesitation when you accelerate, a faulty Engine Intake Manifold Temperature Sensor could be the culprit. This sensor, also called an IAT sensor, tells your engine's computer how hot or cold the incoming air is. This data is critical for the computer to calculate the right amount of fuel to inject. When the sensor fails, it can send incorrect information, leading to a variety of engine performance problems. Fortunately, replacing it is a straightforward and affordable job for most owners.
Symptoms of Failure
The most common sign of a problem is the check engine light turning on. You might also notice your engine running rough, especially at idle, or even stalling. Other symptoms include a noticeable drop in fuel economy, difficulty starting the engine, and a sluggish or hesitant throttle response. These issues occur because the engine's computer is working with bad data, causing the air-fuel mixture to be either too rich (too much fuel) or too lean (not enough fuel).
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
For a daily-driven or stock Eagle Talon, a quality aftermarket sensor is a perfectly reliable and cost-effective choice. The original Mopar sensors can be pricey or hard to find new. Aftermarket brands offer a direct-fit replacement without the high cost.
Brand Tiers:
- Reputable Aftermarket (e.g., Standard Ignition): Brands like Standard Motor Products (SMP) are well-known in the industry and produce reliable replacement parts that meet or exceed OEM specifications. They are a solid choice for a dependable, long-lasting repair without paying for the OEM name.
- Value Brands (e.g., True Tech): These brands focus on providing the lowest possible price. While they can be a good budget option, quality can be inconsistent. For a critical engine sensor, sticking with a more established aftermarket brand is often a safer bet to avoid premature failure and performance issues.
A Note on Performance Builds
Highly modified or turbocharged DSMs sometimes use faster-responding GM-style IAT sensors for more precise tuning, but this requires custom wiring and is not necessary for stock or lightly modified vehicles.
Cost of Replacing the Intake Temperature Sensor
Replacing the IAT sensor on a '95-'98 Talon is an inexpensive repair. The primary cost is the part itself, as labor is minimal.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Sensor | $28 - $48 |
| New OEM (Mopar) Sensor | $38 - $65 |
| Used OEM Sensor | $15 - $30 |
| Shop Labor | $48 - $70 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the IAT sensor located on a 1995-1998 Eagle Talon?
On the 2.0L non-turbo models, the IAT sensor is typically screwed into the back of the plastic intake manifold. On turbocharged models, it is often located in the intake piping just before the throttle body. It is a small, two-wire sensor.
Can I clean my old IAT sensor?
While it is possible to clean a dirty sensor tip with electrical contact cleaner, it is often not the cause of the failure. The sensor fails internally over time. Given the low cost of a new aftermarket part, replacement is the most reliable solution to ensure accurate readings.
Is this a difficult part to replace myself?
No, this is a great DIY job for beginners. The process involves disconnecting the electrical connector, unscrewing the old sensor, and installing the new one. The main challenge can be reaching the sensor on the back of the manifold. Sometimes, the old plastic sensor can be brittle and break during removal, so be prepared for that possibility.
What happens if I don't replace a bad IAT sensor?
You can continue to drive the car, but you will experience poor performance, bad fuel economy, and potentially fail an emissions test. A very incorrect reading could cause the engine to run lean, which over a long period, could contribute to engine damage.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 5269756 05269756
Two-pin thermistor sensor, typically with a 3/8" NPT thread.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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