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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 happens when a ECT sensor goes bad?
A faulty ECT sensor can send a false signal to the onboard computer, resulting in an incorrect air-fuel mixture. For example, a faulty sensor can send a signal indicating the engine is cold when it is not, and more fuel will heat the engine quickly.
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.
Can you drive with a bad ECT sensor?
It is possible to drive a vehicle with a faulty coolant temperature sensor as the management system defaults to a static reading. A vehicle’s coolant sensor is a critical component used by the engine management system. It directly affects, cooling and fueling of the engine and therefore affects how the engine performs.
When should I replace my ECT sensor?
Often, the engine coolant temperature sensor must be replaced at about 100,000 miles. If you don’t properly maintain the engine cooling system, the sensor could fail much earlier.
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.
Can a bad ECT cause no start?
If you have starting problems and the ‘check engine’ light doesn’t come on, you may have a bad engine coolant temperature sensor (ECT). They’re quick and easy to replace.
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 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 ECT sensor cause high idle?
So, if the engines (ECT) coolant temperature sensor fails; then the engine electronic control unit (ECU) may think the engine is still cold. As a result, keeping the engine (rpm) high; by commanding the idle air control valve appropriately.
Do I have to drain coolant to replace ECT sensor?
You only need to remove enough to drop the level below the sensor. Then close the drain valve. This will minimize coolant waste when you remove the sensor.
Can I drive my car with a P0128 code?
Can I drive my vehicle with a P0128 trouble code and illuminated CEL? You may drive your vehicle with a P0128 trouble code. You will not notice any issue except for maybe the temperature gauge never reaching normal levels, and possibly the Check Engine light being illuminated.
Can overheating damage coolant temperature sensor?
If the computer detects that the engine’s temperature is too high, it will automatically scale back engine performance settings. This occurs to prevent overheating, which can damage the engine severely. This post discusses some of the common symptoms of a bad coolant temperature sensor.
Why does my coolant light come on when its cold?
If a yellow coolant light pops on in the winter, it’s probably because your coolant level is low. “Coolant contracts in colder temperatures, so even if the car’s coolant level has fallen only a bit below normal, it could still trigger the system’s sensor,” says John Ibbotson, CR’s chief mechanic.
What sensors can cause a car not to start?
A bad Crankshaft Position sensor is a common cause of no starts. The signal from this sensor goes to the PCM or ignition module that switches the ignition coil(s) on and off. If you have an RPM signal, a bad ignition module or PCM may not be switching the coil(s) on and off.
Will a bad ECT sensor throw a code?
A failed (ECT) sensor can send a false signal to the computer; and throw off the fuel and timing calculations. It is not uncommon for the coolant temperature sensor to fail; and send a permanently cold signal to the computer.
Can bad ECT sensor cause misfire?
A failed ECT sensor can prevent this change from happening, resulting in a rich-running engine and poor fuel economy. 4. Your engine runs poorly: The sensor affects almost every aspect of engine management. A bad one can easily cause a misfire or poor engine performance.
Can you put temp sensor in radiator?
Many cars have more than one coolant temperature sensor. In most cars, the primary ECT sensor (ECT sensor 1) is installed near the thermostat in the cylinder head or block or on the thermostat housing. A second coolant temperature sensor could be installed in another part of the engine, or in the radiator.
