Coolant Temperature Sensor

The Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor (CTS or ECT) uses electrical resistance to measure the temperature of the coolant/antifreeze mixture in the cooling system. This gives an indication of how much heat the engine is giving off. The vehicle’s computer will use this information to adjust certain engine functions to keep engine temperature at an ideal level. It may turn the cooling fan off or on, open the exhaust gas recirculation or communicate the need for a richer fuel mixture.

Common causes of Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor failure include:

• Faulty wiring
• Loose or corroded connectors

Symptoms of a failing Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor may include:

• Reduced fuel efficiency
• Poor start
• Black smoke coming from the vehicle’s exhaust
• Overheating engine
• Poor idle (necessary to pump the gas pedal to keep the vehicle running)
• Check the Engine Light on

Each Coolant Temperature Sensor is environmentally and 100% functional tested to ensure optimum performance and durability out of the box.

FAQ

ABOUT YOUR VEHICLE’S ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR

What does a Coolant Temperature Sensor do?
The Coolant Temperature sensor changes resistance with the temperature. The Coolant Temperature sensor is critical to many PCM functions such as fuel injection, ignition timing, variable valve timing, and transmission shifting.

Where are these sensors located?
The Coolant Temperature sensor is located in the engine's coolant passage, usually near the thermostat.

Will a malfunctioning Coolant Temp Sensor illuminate the check engine light or affect vehicle operation?
Yes, a failing sensor can illuminate the MIL, and cause the engine to run rich or lean. The transmission may shift incorrectly or not lock up the torque converter.

What are the common causes of failure?
Typically these sensors fail due to corrosion within the coolant system. They may also leak coolant through the wiring connector.

How do we determine if these sensors are malfunctioning?
A DTC will be set if an abnormal reading occurs, P0116 for sensor performance, P0117 for low input, or P0118 for high input. The coolant temperature sensor reading should closely match the air charge/manifold temperature reading on a scan tool if the engine has not run for over an hour. The sensor circuit can be checked for proper voltage using a voltmeter.

Why Buy from Us / What makes Our Coolant Temp Sensors the best?
As an OEM manufacturer, Standard/ Our Supplier has complete control of the manufacturing process from componentry to finished product
Temperature sensor design specifies tight tolerance thermistor response values to assure the accuracy of the temperature measurement and proper part operation
All Coolant Temperature sensors are 100% factory-tested to ensure trouble-free performance.