ECT Sensor

The scan tool range is -40°C-151°C (-40°F-304°F). The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor is mounted in the coolant stream. The PCM applies 5 volts to the ECT sensor circuit. The sensor is a thermistor which changes internal resistance as temperature changes. When the sensor is cold (internal resistance high), the PCM monitors a high signal voltage and interprets the higher voltage as a cold engine. As the sensor warms (internal resistance decreases), the voltage signal decreases and the PCM interprets the lower voltage as a warm engine.