Can a low coolant sensor cause a PCM error?
The PCM and Low Coolant. Low coolant can affect the internal temperature of the engine, which is protected by the antifreeze. When the coolant is too low to effectively protect the internal temperature of the engine, the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor will provide a false reading to the powertrain control module (PCM).
Can a low coolant cause a check engine error?
Low coolant in the radiator of your car can trigger the malfunction illumination light (MIL), also known as the “check engine” light.
How to troubleshoot the engine coolant temperature ( ECT ) sensor?
This article will help you to troubleshoot the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor on your GM 4.3L, 5.0L, or 5.7L equipped pick up, van, mini-van or SUV. You can either use a multimeter or a scan tool (w/ Live Data capability) to diagnose the ECT sensor and/or trouble codes.
What should my PCM read when the engine is off?
Reconnect any loose wires if necessary. If your PCM has experienced corrosion, you’ll have to skip to step 5 to see if it’s failed. While you’re under the hood, use your multimeter to ensure that your battery has a full charge. It should read at least 12.6 volts with the engine off, or 13.7 volts with the engine running.
How to reset PCM and check engine light?
First, park your truck and turn it off. Pull the hood lever under the driver’s side dash, and then pull the safety catch on the front of the hood to open it. Find the power distribution center (PDC); it will be a black box near the battery. Unlatch and open the cover of the PDC.
How can I tell if my PCM is faulty?
You need to check the sensors that are connected to your PCM, as well as the wires that connect them. If you’re seeing a PCM code – or two, or three – it can really help you narrow in on which sensors or wires are faulty.
How to test a PCM in a car?
How to Test a PCM. 1 Step 1: Visual Inspection. Now, before you start doing any surgery on your car, the first thing to do is to check for rust or a disconnected wire. 2 Step 2: Check Your Battery. 3 Step 3: Code Scanning. 4 Step 4: Inspect Wiring and Sensors. 5 Step 5: Try a Replacement.
Where to test the PCM on a Jeep Wrangler?
3-Test for reference voltage (5v) coming out of the PCM at pin 17 ( orange wire) at the black connector and pin 31 (violet/orange wire) at the white connector. If the power input leads and grounds are good, but nothing is coming out of the two reference leads, then the PCM is smoked. Period.
When does the check coolant light illuminate?
In many cases, when the ECT sensor fails, the “check coolant” light will illuminate–if applicable to the specific vehicle–in addition to the MIL. Jody L. Campbell spent over 15 years as both a manager and an under-car specialist in the automotive repair industry.
Can a low coolant light cause a check engine error?
The PCM and Low Coolant Low coolant in the radiator of your car can trigger the malfunction illumination light (MIL), also known as the “check engine” light. Low coolant can affect the internal temperature of the engine, which is protected by the antifreeze.
When does the engine coolant fan come on and off?
The fan will then cycle on and off as needed, to maintain the proper coolant temperature. So, the fan runs mostly at idle or low speed, when the engine is at normal temperature. Most fans should come on, when the coolant reaches about 200 to 230 degrees.
The PCM and Low Coolant. Low coolant can affect the internal temperature of the engine, which is protected by the antifreeze. When the coolant is too low to effectively protect the internal temperature of the engine, the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor will provide a false reading to the powertrain control module (PCM).
In many cases, when the ECT sensor fails, the “check coolant” light will illuminate–if applicable to the specific vehicle–in addition to the MIL. Jody L. Campbell spent over 15 years as both a manager and an under-car specialist in the automotive repair industry.
The PCM and Low Coolant Low coolant in the radiator of your car can trigger the malfunction illumination light (MIL), also known as the “check engine” light. Low coolant can affect the internal temperature of the engine, which is protected by the antifreeze.
What are the symptoms of a bad cooling fan relay?
1. Engine running hot One of the first symptoms commonly associated with a bad or failing cooling fan relay is an engine that runs hot or overheats. If you notice that your engine is running at higher temperatures than normal, that may be a sign that the relay is not functioning properly.