P0116
DTC P0116
DTC DESCRIPTOR
DTC P0116
Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor Performance
DIAGNOSTIC FAULT INFORMATION
Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure. Testing and Inspection
TYPICAL SCAN TOOL DATA
ECT Sensor:
CIRCUIT DESCRIPTION
The engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor is a variable resistor that measures the temperature of the engine coolant. The engine control module (ECM) supplies 5 volts to the ECT signal circuit and supplies a ground to the low reference circuit.
The table illustrates the difference between temperature, resistance, and voltage:
CONDITIONS FOR RUNNING THE DTC
- DTCs P0117, P0118, P0125, P0128, and P0217 are not set.
- The engine is operating.
- The ignition has been off for more than 6 hours before vehicle is started.
- The DTC runs when the above conditions are met.
CONDITIONS FOR SETTING THE DTC
The ECM does not detect an ECT sensor change of more than 3°C (5°F).
ACTION TAKEN WHEN THE DTC SETS
DTC P0115 is a Type B DTC.
CONDITIONS FOR CLEARING THE MIL/DTC
DTC P0115 is a Type B DTC.
DIAGNOSTIC AIDS
- After starting the engine, the ECT sensor temperature should rise steadily, then stabilize after the thermostat opens.
- Test the ECT sensor at various temperature levels in order to evaluate the possibility of a skewed sensor. A skewed sensor can result in a driveability condition. Refer to Temperature vs Resistance.
- Inspect for the correct operation of the engine cooling system and verify the correct coolant level.
CIRCUIT/SYSTEM VERIFICATION
1. Verify that the following DTCs are not set: P0112, P0113, P0117, P0118, P0125, or P0128.
- If any of the DTCs are set, refer to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle. Diagnostic Trouble Code Descriptions
2. If the vehicle passes the Circuit/System Verification Test, then operate the vehicle within the conditions for running the DTC. You may also operate the vehicle within the conditions that are captured in the Freeze Frame/Failure Records List. DTC P0116 should not set.
CIRCUIT/SYSTEM TESTING
1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the ECT sensor.
2. Ignition OFF, test for less than 5 ohms of resistance between the low reference circuit and ground.
- If greater than 5 ohms, test the low reference circuit for a short to voltage or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the ECM.
3. Ignition ON, using a scan tool verify that the ECT sensor parameter is at -40°C (-40°F).
- If greater than -40°C (-40°F), test the signal circuit of the ECT sensor for a short to ground. If the circuit tests normal, replace the ECM.
4. Install a 3-amp fused jumper wire between the signal circuit and the low reference circuit. Verify the ECT sensor parameter is greater than 128°C (262°F).
IMPORTANT: If the signal circuit of the ECT sensor is shorted to voltage the ECT sensor may be damaged.
- If less than 128°C (262°F), test the signal circuit of the ECT sensor for a short to voltage or an open/high resistance. If the circuit test normal, replace the ECM.
5. If all circuits test normal, test or replace the ECT sensor.
COMPONENT TESTING
1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector of the ECT sensor.
2. Test the ECT sensor by varying the sensor temperature while monitoring the sensor resistance. Compare the readings with the Temperature vs Resistance table and verify that the resistance is within 5 percent of the specification.
IMPORTANT: A thermometer can be used to the used to test the sensor off the vehicle.
- If the resistance vs. temperature is not within 5 percent, replace the ECT sensor.
REPAIR INSTRUCTIONS
Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure. Verification Tests