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A coolant temperature sensor (CTS) (also known as an ECT sensor or ECTS (engine coolant temperature sensor) is used to measure the temperature of the coolant/antifreeze mix in the cooling system, giving an indication of how much heat the engine is giving off.
What problems can a bad coolant temperature sensor cause?
If the coolant temperature sensor malfunctions, it can transmit a false signal to the computer. And the response of the computer may unbalance the timing and fuel calculations. It is also common for a coolant temperature sensor to fail without warning and send permanently cold signals to the computer.
How do I test my ECT sensor?
Start with a cold engine. With the ignition off, disconnect the wiring connector, from the (ECT) sensor. Attach an ohmmeter, across the sensor’s terminals. Measure the sensor’s resistance and record the reading.
How do you know if your coolant sensor is bad?
If you notice more fluctuation in your engine temperature or it looks higher or lower than usual while you’re driving, it could be the engine coolant temperature sensor. In particular, if your engine doesn’t seem to be warming up as it typically does, you should have a mechanic take a look at your cooling system.
Where is the ECT sensor located?
The ECT sensor is located in the left of the cylinder head and is connected to the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor. Underneath the air intake pipe and behind the right cylinder head is where the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor is located.
What happens if I unplug coolant temperature sensor?
What Happens If You Unplug The Coolant Temp Sensor? Unplugging the engine coolant sensor while the car is running will likely cause the engine to stumble and run rough. The engine light may not come on imminently, but a DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) will be logged in the PCM.
How long can you drive with a bad coolant temperature sensor?
You can drive 1,000 to 2,000 miles with a failing engine coolant temperature sensor.
What should ECT be at idle?
Operating temps on most cars are between 185 to 220. With out looking it up I’d say the K24 shoould be right around 190-195. Although 202 is not bad.
Can a coolant temperature sensor cause rough idle?
A faulty coolant sensor that always reads cold may cause the fuel control system to run rich, pollute and waste fuel. A coolant sensor that always reads hot may cause cold driveability problems such as stalling, hesitation and rough idle. This also affects engine performance and fuel economy.
Can low coolant cause P0128 code?
Low engine coolant can alter the engine running temperature enough to signal trouble code P0128. Your intake air temperature sensor, coolant temperature sensor and coolant fan could also signal this trouble code, so these should be inspected after you look over your thermostat and coolant level.
How much does it cost to replace ECT sensor?
The average price for an engine temperature sensor replacement is between $150 and $193. Labor costs are between $82 and $105 while parts are between $66 and $88.
Why is my car reading hot but not overheating?
This problem can be due to a low coolant level in the radiator, a faulty thermostat, a bad radiator, a damaged head gasket, a faulty water pump, or it might just be a bad temperature sensor or gauge giving a false reading.
Does the coolant temp sensor control the fan?
The sensor works by measuring the temperature that’s being given off by the thermostat and/or the coolant itself. The temperature is then sent to the on-board control system. As the control system receives the temperature from the CTS, it may trigger the cooling fan to either shut off or turn on.
How do you fix coolant temperature?
What to do if your car overheats Turn your heater on full blast. That helps drain some heat from the engine while you find a place to stop. Get off the road and stop. As soon as you can, drive to a safe location and turn off the engine. Lift the hood. Let the engine cool down. Check the coolant tank.
Can a bad coolant temperature sensor cause car not to start?
The sensor will not cause a no start. It could cause a hard start and a rich or lean condition only.
Can a car run without a coolant temperature sensor?
If you unplug the sensor when the engine is cold the engine may run smoothly at first but as the engine warms up the a/f mix will become too rich and the engine will start misfiring and possibly stall.
How do I know if my sensor is working?
You can test the sensor in a dark area and then by moving your phone to an area with bright light. If screen illumination changes, that means light sensor is working.
How long does it take to replace a coolant temperature sensor?
The actual process of replacing the coolant temperature sensor is extremely simple. However, the difficult work comes in the preparation of the cooling system – both before and after. Tip: This job should only be completed when the engine is cold and has not been running for a minimum of one hour.
What temperature is too hot for engines?
Normal operating temperature of new and used vehicles Of course, factors such as air conditioning, towing and idling at a stop will impact this, but you should be fine if your car is running at anywhere between 190-220 degrees. Over this limit, and your radiator and coolant fluids run a higher risk of burning.
How do you fix P0118?
What repairs can fix the P0118 code? Repairing or replacing the ECT connector. Repairing or replacing the wiring open circuit as necessary. Replacing the ECT with a new sensor.
