2004 Lexus ES 330FACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor (3MZ-FE): Replacement

  1. DISCONNECT ENGINE WIRE NO. 3 (BATTERY NEGATIVE TERMINAL) 
  2. REMOVE RADIATOR LOWER AIR DEFLECTOR 
  3. DRAIN ENGINE COOLANT (See  ENGINE COOLANT (3MZ-FE)  ) 
  4. REMOVE ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR 
    1. Disconnect the engine coolant temperature sensor connector.
    2. Using a deep socket wrench 19, remove the engine coolant temperature sensor and gasket.
      Fig 1: Removing Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor
      G00919763Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
  5. INSTALL ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR 
    1. Using a deep socket wrench 19, install a new gasket and the engine coolant temperature sensor.

      Torque: 20 N.m (200 kgf.cm, 14 ft.lbf) 

    2. Connect the engine coolant temperature sensor connector.
  6. CONNECT ENGINE WIRE NO. 3 (BATTERY NEGATIVE TERMINAL) 

    Torque: 5.4 N.m (55 kgf.cm, 48 in.lbf) 

  7. ADD ENGINE COOLANT (see  ENGINE COOLANT (3MZ-FE)  ) 
  8. CHECK FOR ENGINE COOLANT LEAKS (See  ON-VEHICLE INSPECTION  ) 
  9. INSTALL RADIATOR LOWER AIR DEFLECTOR 
  10. SYSTEM INITIALIZATION (See  PRECAUTION  ) 
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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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