Temperature Sensor (Gauge): Description and Operation

ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE (ECT) GAGE

The IPC displays the engine coolant temperature on the analog ECT gage as determined by the PCM. The PCM monitors the signal circuit of the engine coolant temperature sensor. The IPC receives a class 2 message from the PCM indicating the engine coolant temperature. The IPC illuminates the check gages indicator when a high engine coolant temperature condition exists. The engine coolant temperature gage defaults to 75°C (160°F) or below when one of the following conditions occur:
- The PCM detects a malfunction in the engine coolant temperature sensor signal circuit.
- The IPC detects a loss of class 2 communication with the PCM.