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.
Diagnostic Procedure
- Check Ground Connections
- Turn ignition switch OFF.
- Loosen and retighten three ground screws on the body. See Figure
.
Refer to GROUND INSPECTION .
OK or NG
- OK: go to 2 .
- NG: Repair or replace ground connections.
- Check Engine COOLANT Temperature Sensor
Refer to COMPONENT INSPECTION .
OK or NG
- OK: go to 3 .
- NG: Replace engine COOLANT temperature sensor.
- Check Thermostat Operation
When the engine is cold [lower than 70° C (158° F)] condition, grasp lower radiator hose and confirm the engine COOLANT does not flow.
OK or NG
- OK: go to 4 .
- NG: Repair or replace thermostat. Refer to THERMOSTAT AND WATER CONTROL VALVE .
- Check Intermittent Incident
Refer to TROUBLE DIAGNOSIS FOR INTERMITTENT INCIDENT .
- Inspection end
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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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