Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Circuit Description
The radiator coolant temperature sensor is referred to as B34B Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 2 in schematics and other areas.
The engine coolant radiator temperature sensor is a variable resistor that measures the temperature of the engine coolant in the radiator. The engine control module (ECM) supplies 5 volts to the engine coolant radiator temperature signal circuit and supplies a ground to the low reference circuit. The purpose of this diagnostic is to determine if the input from the RCT sensor is skewed warmer than normal. The internal clock of the ECM will record the amount of time the engine is OFF. If the required engine OFF time is met at start-up, the ECM will compare the temperature difference between the actual measured RCT and ECT sensors.
The following table illustrates the difference between temperature, resistance, and voltage:
| RCT | RCT Resistance | RCT Signal Voltage |
|---|---|---|
| Cold | High | High |
| Warm | Low | Low |
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.