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What does P0116 mean?
Diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0116 stands for “Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance.” This DTC is triggered by the PCM after it detects that the voltage signals relayed by the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor fall outside the normal manufacturer-specified range.
What happens when coolant temperature sensor goes bad?
If the coolant temperature sensor goes bad it 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. This will reduce fuel economy, and may hinder engine performance.
Where is my coolant temperature 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 is the engine coolant temperature sensor?
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.
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.
What are the symptoms of a faulty temperature sensor?
Bad Coolant Temperature Sensor Symptoms
- Check Engine Light.
- Poor Mileage.
- Electrical Cooling Fans not coming on.
- Black Smoke from the Exhaust Pipe.
- Difficult Starting Condition.
- Engine Overheats.
- Poor Idling.
- Poor Engine performance.
How do I know if my engine temperature sensor is bad?
What Signs May Signal Your Coolant Temperature Sensor May Be Failing?
- Poor Fuel Economy.
- Irregular Temperature Readings.
- Black Smoke from Your Exhaust.
- Your Engine is Overheating.
- Your Check Engine Light is On.
Can I drive with a bad 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.
How do I know if my coolant temp sensor is bad?
Bad Coolant Temperature Sensor Symptoms
- Check Engine Light.
- Poor Mileage.
- Electrical Cooling Fans not coming on.
- Black Smoke from the Exhaust Pipe.
- Difficult Starting Condition.
- Engine Overheats.
- Poor Idling.
- Poor Engine performance.
How do you fix trouble code P0128?
What repairs can fix the P0128 code?
- Replacing the thermostat (most common repair)
- Replacing the coolant temperature sensor, or the wiring and connector associated with the sensor being damaged.