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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 coolant temperature sensor goes bad?
If the coolant temperature sensor malfunctions, it could cause your car engine to get overheated. While sometimes a faulty sensor sends a permanent cold signal to the engine, it can also send a permanent hot signal. When this happens, the car might misfire, or it could lead to engine knocking.
How do you know if your coolant temp 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.
Does the coolant temperature sensor control the fan?
On most modern cars, the cooling fan is controlled by the Engine Control Unit (ECU) which gets a signal from the coolant temperature sensor. If it’s not working, the fan won’t turn on when it needs to, which means the engine might overheat.
What is the function of coolant temperature sensor?
Coolant temperature sensors are used by the fuel management system to detect the engine’s operating temperature. Depending on the sensor information, the control unit adapts the injection time and firing angle to the operating conditions. The sensor is a temperature sensor with a negative temperature coefficient.
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. After that, if you observe that symptoms of a faulty sensor are getting severe you should change it immediately.
Can a temp sensor affect engine starting?
If the sensor is reading too high of temperature when compared to the ambient air temperature sensor when first started then the computer would see it as a problem and turn on the check engine light to use a known good reading. No start will not be caused by the sensor.
Can a bad coolant temp sensor cause AC not to work?
2. Inconsistent cooling. Another symptom of a bad or failing ambient temperature sensor is inconsistent cooling. If the ambient temperature sensor fails or is sending out an inconsistent signal, then the AC system may have trouble maintaining cool and comfortable cabin temperatures.
What are the signs of a bad thermostat?
Signs My Car’s Thermostat Is Going Bad or Has Failed Completely Odd Temperature Gauge Readings. Your temperature gauge should register cold when you first start your car and slowly build up to normal as the engine warms up. Air Temperature Changes. Coolant Leaks. Strange Sounds. Heater Problems.
Will a bad coolant 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.
Does temperature sensor turn on fan?
The temperature that’s being given off by the thermostat is what the sensor works on. The on-board control system gets the temperature. The cooling fan may be turned on or off when the control system receives the temperature from the CTS.
What tells the cooling fan to come on?
The engine temperature should trigger the fan to turn on. It will also turn the fan off once the engine has cooled to under 200 degrees. You may have heard of a part called the radiator fan switch or temperature fan switch. This is linked to a thermostat and works much like your home’s HVAC system.
What are three ways that temperature sensors can be tested?
Physically inspect sensor for damage. Check temperature transmitter. Test faulty thermocouple with a multimeter. Test faulty resistance thermometer with a multimeter.
How do you test a thermostat sensor?
Gently lower the end of the sensor into the water until the entire device is fully submerged. Wait a minute or so for the screen to give you a reading of the cold water. Once you have a reading, write down the measurement for reference. A common reading for a temperature sensor in cold water is around 5 volts.
How much does it cost to replace a coolant temperature 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. Taxes and fees aren’t included in the estimate.
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.
Where is coolant sensor located?
The Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor can be located in a few places, depending on the vehicle and its manufacturer. It is most often located close to the thermostat of the cooling system or inside of it. The cooling system is located beneath the air intake pipe and behind the right cylinder.
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.
What sensors can stop a car from starting?
A crankshaft position sensor (crank sensor) is an important device measuring the engine RPM and tracing the crankshaft position. The car won’t start if the crankshaft position sensor doesn’t work properly. The crank sensor can fail, or its wiring can get damaged. This may cause the car to stall or not start.
