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.
Oil Temperature Sensor
The temperature sensor is an NTC sensor. The temperature sensor is on the transmission control system inside the side cover. It gauges the temperature of the transmission fluid in the oil pan. The temperature sensor is integrated in the cable harness. The temperature sensor is supplied with 5 V and is grounded via the transmission control module (TCM). The control module can determine the transmission fluid temperature by measuring the voltage drop across the NTC resistor of the sensor. The control module stores the time the temperature has been within a certain temperature range. If a certain temperature and time has been exceeded, a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) indicating that a oil change is necessary is stored.
There are diagnostics for the temperature sensor.
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
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.