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.
DTC P0116
DTC P0116 : ECT Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance Problem
NOTE: Before you troubleshoot, review the general troubleshooting information .
| DTC Description | Confirmed DTC | Pending DTC | Freeze Frame |
|---|---|---|---|
| P0116 ECT Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance Problem |
DTC (PGM-FI)
- ECT sensor 1 check
-1. Turn the vehicle to the ON mode.
-2. Check the parameter (s) below with the HDS.
Signal Threshold Current conditions Values Unit Values Unit ECT SENSOR 1 More than 176 deg. F More than 80 deg. C Do the current condition (s) match the threshold?
YES
Note the value of ECT SENSOR 1, then go to step 3.
NO
Note the value of ECT SENSOR 1, then go to step 2.
- Problem verification (low temperature)
-1. Note the value of ECT SENSOR 1 in the DATA LIST with the HDS.
Signal Current conditions Values Unit ECT SENSOR 1 -2. Start the engine. Hold the engine speed at 3, 000 rpm without load (CVT in P or N, M/T in neutral) until the radiator fan comes on, then let it idle.
-3. Check ECT SENSOR 1 in the DATA LIST with the HDS.
Signal Current conditions Values Unit ECT SENSOR 1 Does ECT SENSOR 1 change 18 deg. F (10 deg. C) or more?
YES
Intermittent failure, the system is OK at this time. Check for poor connections or loose terminals at ECT sensor 1 and the PCM. If the freeze data/on-board snapshot of this DTC is recorded, try to reproduce the failure under the same conditions with the freeze data/on-board snapshot .
NO
The failure is duplicated. Replace ECT sensor 1 .
- Problem verification (high temperature)
-1. Turn the vehicle to the OFF (LOCK) mode.
-2. Open the hood, and let the engine cool for 3 hours.
-3. Turn the vehicle to the ON mode.
-4. Check ECT SENSOR 1 in the DATA LIST with the HDS.
Signal Current conditions Values Unit ECT SENSOR 1 Does ECT SENSOR 1 change 18 deg. F (10 deg. C) or more?
YES
Intermittent failure, the system is OK at this time. Check for poor connections or loose terminals at ECT sensor 1 and the PCM. If the freeze data/on-board snapshot of this DTC is recorded, try to reproduce the failure under the same conditions with the freeze data/on-board snapshot .
NO
The failure is duplicated. Replace ECT sensor 1 .
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.