The
Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor is a thermistor (a resistor which
changes the value which is based on the temperature) mounted in the engine
coolant stream. The low coolant temperature produces a high resistance (100,000 ohms
at -40°C/-40°) while a high temperature will cause a low
resistance (70 ohms at 130°C/266°F).
The PCM supplies a 5 volt signal to the Engine Coolant Temperature
(ECT) sensor through a resistor in the PCM and measures the voltage. The voltage
will be high when the engine is cold, and low when the engine is hot. By measuring
the voltage, the PCM knows the engine coolant temperature. The engine coolant
temperature affects the fuel control and the glow plug system.