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 ECM uses this high side coolant rationality diagnostic to determine if the input from the ECT sensor is skewed warmer than normal. The internal clock of the ECM will record the amount of time the ignition is OFF. If the calibrated ignition OFF time is met at start-up, the ECM will compare the temperature difference between the ECT and the intake air temperature (IAT), to determine if the temperatures are within an acceptable operating range of each other.

DTC P0116 is a Type B DTC.

DTC P0116 is a Type B DTC.

Schematic Reference

Engine Controls Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

Electrical Information Reference

DTC Type Reference

Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Type Definitions

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information

1. If the ignition has been OFF for 8 hours or more, the ECT and the IAT, should be within 15°C (22°F) of each other and also the ambient temperature. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF, and use a scan tool to observe the IAT and the ECT sensor parameters. Compare those sensor parameters to each other and also to the ambient temperature. A slight to moderate resistance in the IAT signal or low reference circuit, can widen the spread between the two sensors and cause this DTC to set.
2. An IAT sensor that is skewed lower at various ambient temperatures, due to more resistance than is normal, can widen the spread between the two sensors and cause this DTC to set. Measure and record the resistance of the IAT sensor at various ambient temperatures, and then compare those measurements to the Temperature vs Resistance Table. Refer to Temperature Versus Resistance.
3. Inspect the ECT sensor terminals for corrosion, and for engine coolant leaking through the sensor.

Warning: Under pressure, the temperature of the solution in the radiator can be considerably higher, without boiling. Removing the radiator cap while the engine is hot (pressure is high), will cause the solution to boil instantaneously, with explosive force. The solution will spew out over the engine, fenders, and the person removing the cap. Serious bodily injury may result. Flammable antifreeze, such as alcohol, is not recommended for use at any time. Flammable antifreeze could cause a serious fire.

4. Turn OFF the ignition.
5. Inspect the cooling system surge tank for the proper engine coolant level. Refer to Cooling System Leak Testing and Cooling System Draining and Filling.

Note: All electrical components and accessories must be turned OFF and allowed to power down.

1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the ECT harness connector at the ECT sensor.
2. Ignition OFF, test for less than 5 ohms of resistance between the low reference circuit terminal A and ground.

⇒	If greater than the specified range, test the low reference circuit for an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the ECM.

3. Ignition ON, verify the scan tool ECT Sensor parameter is less than -39°C (-38°F).

⇒	If greater than the specified range, test the signal circuit for a short to ground. If the circuit tests normal, replace the ECM.

4. Install a 3A fused jumper wire between the signal circuit and the low reference circuit terminal A. Verify the scan tool ECT Sensor parameter is greater than 149°C (300°F).

⇒	If less than the specified range, test the signal circuit terminal B for a short to voltage or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the ECM.

5. If all circuits test normal, test or replace the ECT sensor.

Measure and record the resistance of the ECT sensor at various ambient temperatures, then compare those measurements to the Temperature vs Resistance Table. Refer to Temperature Versus Resistance.

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.