The engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor uses a thermistor to control the signal voltage to the electronic control module (ECM). The ECM applies a voltage to the ECT sensor. When the engine is cold, the ECT sensor resistance is high. Therefore, the ECM will see a high signal voltage. As the engine warms, the ECT sensor resistance becomes less, and the voltage drops. At normal engine operating temperature, the ECT sensor signal will measure about 1.5-2 volts.
• | The engine has been running for more than 2 seconds. |
• | The engine coolant temperature sensor signal voltage indicates an engine coolant temperature above 146°C (294°F). |
• | If the connections are OK, monitor the coolant temperature while moving related connectors and the wiring harness. If the failure is induced, the display on the scan tool will change. This may help to isolate the location of an intermittent malfunction. |
• | The Temperature vs Resistance values scale may be used to test the coolant sensor at various temperatures to evaluate the possibility of a shifted or mis-scaled engine coolant temperature sensor which may result in driveability complaints. Refer to Temperature Versus Resistance . |
Step | Action | Values | Yes | No |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Was the Diagnostic System Check performed? | -- | Go to Step 2 | |
2 |
Does the scan tool display the engine coolant temperature within the value specified? | 80-110°C (176-230°F) | Go to Diagnostic Aids | Go to Step 3 |
3 |
Does the scan tool display the engine coolant temperature below the value specified? | -30°C (-11°F) | Go to Step 4 | Go to Step 6 |
4 |
Does the scan tool display the engine coolant temperature above the value specified? | 180°C (356°F) | Go to Step 5 | Go to Step 6 |
5 |
Did you complete the repair? | -- | System OK | -- |
6 | Measure the voltage at the ECT sensor connector terminal 1. Is the voltage within the value specified? | 4.5-5.5 V | Go to Step 7 | Go to Step 9 |
7 |
Is the problem found? | -- | Go to Step 12 | Go to Step 8 |
8 |
Did you complete the repair? | -- | System OK | -- |
9 | Inspect the wire for a short to ground between the ECT sensor connector terminal 1 and the ECM connector terminal B3. Is the problem found? | -- | Go to Step 13 | Go to Step 10 |
10 |
Is the problem found? | -- | Go to Step 11 | Go to Step 8 |
11 |
Have the terminals and pins been repaired? | -- | Go to Step 6 | -- |
12 |
Did you complete the repair? | -- | System OK | -- |
13 |
Did you complete the repair? | -- | System OK | -- |