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.
P0116-Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Performance: Notes
- When Monitored : With the engine running and no fault in the throttle valve actuator.
- Set Condition : LOW LIMIT: The ECT Sensor value is less than -39°C (-38°F ) for more than 1 second. HIGH LIMIT: The ECT Sensor value is more than 170°C (338°F) for more than 1 second. CLOSED LOOP TEMPERATURE NOT REACHED: The engine coolant temperature does not reach 15°C (60°F) in a predetermined time. Failure time varies from 2 to 20 minutes and is calculated from start up temperature, engine speed, and ambient temperature.
| Possible Causes |
| ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR SIGNAL CIRCUIT SHORT TO VOLTAGE |
| ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR SIGNAL CIRCUIT SHORT TO GROUND |
| ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR SIGNAL CIRCUIT SHORT TO SENSOR GROUND CIRCUIT |
| ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR SIGNAL CIRCUIT OPEN |
| SENSOR GROUND CIRCUIT OPEN |
| IMPROPER COOLANT LEVEL |
| ENGINE COOLANT THERMOSTAT |
| ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR |
| POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE |
For a complete Powertrain Control Module Circuit Diagram, refer to SCHEMATICS AND DIAGRAMS .
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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.
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