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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 if coolant temperature sensor is 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 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.
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.
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.
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 drive with a broken coolant temp 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.
Can you drive with a P0128 code?
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.
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.
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.
What should my ECT temp be?
Most experts agree that your engine should run between 195 degrees and 220 degrees. In ideal situations, your needle will maintain a posture right in the middle of your gauge.
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.
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 low coolant cause no start?
If the coolant leaks to the outside of the engine, and gets on the plugs and wires, it may not start. Also, if the leaks to the outside and the engine overheats, it may warp the head. The engine won’t start. If the leak is on the outside of the engine and the car didn’t overheat, the car should just start back up.
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.
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.
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.
How often do coolant temp sensors go bad?
At 100,000 miles, the engine coolant temperature sensor needs to be replaced. The engine cooling system’s sensor could fail much earlier if you don’t maintain it.
How is P0128 diagnosed?
The most common cause for P0128 is the engine coolant thermostat is stuck open. A simple way to diagnose this is to feel the radiator hose and monitor how hot the temperature of the coolant is when it starts flowing through the radiator hose.
How serious is a P0128 code?
Error code P0128 is not serious enough to require immediate repair or prevent you from driving your vehicle. However, as it can greatly impact fuel economy and emissions, the issue should be addressed in a timely manner. Prolonged coolant temperature problems can also lead to serious engine damage.
How do you fix a sticky thermostat?
Replace the valves in the thermostat hoses. Follow this step only if the valves are the main cause of the sticking thermostat. You can either replace the valves with new ones or work the valves back into a position where they can move up and down more freely. Replace the thermostat.
