Engine Temperature Sensor: Description and Operation

Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor




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 temperature produces a high resistance of about 100,000 ohms at -40 °C (-40 °F). High temperature causes a low resistance of about 70 ohms at 130 °C (266 °F).

The PCM supplies a 5-volt signal to the ECT sensor through resistors internal to the PCM and then measures the voltage after the internal resistor. This signal voltage will be high when the engine is cold and low when the engine is hot. By measuring the voltage, the PCM calculates the engine coolant temperature. Engine coolant temperature affects most of the systems that the PCM controls.

The Scan Tool displays engine coolant temperature in degrees. After engine start-up, the temperature should rise steadily to about 85 °C (185 °F). It then stabilizes when the thermostat opens. If the engine has not been run for several hours (overnight), the engine coolant temperature and intake air temperature displays should be close to each other.