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.
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HOMESERVICE MANUALSOLDSMOBILE1995CUTLASS CIERA L4-2.2L VIN 4REPAIR AND DIAGNOSISPOWERTRAIN MANAGEMENTCOMPUTERS AND CONTROL SYSTEMSCOOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR/SWITCH (FOR COMPUTER)DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION
1995 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera L4-2.2L VIN 4
Coolant Temperature Sensor/Switch (For Computer): Description and Operation
1995 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera L4-2.2L VIN 4SECTION Description and Operation
Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor:
PURPOSE
The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor is a thermistor (a resistor which changes value based on temperature) mounted in the engine coolant stream. Low coolant temperatures produce a high resistance (100,000 ohms at -40°C / -40°F), while high temperatures cause low resistance (70 ohms at 130°C / 266°F). The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) uses this signal to determine the engine coolant temperature.
OPERATION
The PCM supplies a 5 volt signal to the ECT sensor through a resistor in the PCM and monitors the terminal voltage. Since this forms a series circuit to ground through the ECT sensor, high sensor resistance (low temperature) will result in high PCM terminal voltage. When the ECT sensor's resistance is low (high temperature), the terminal voltage will be drawn lower. This terminal voltage indicates engine coolant temperature to the PCM.
RENDER: 1.0x
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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.