When to replace the coolant temperature sensor in your car?
If you have starting problems and the ‘check engine’ light doesn’t come on, you may have a bad engine coolant temperature sensor (ECT). They’re quick and easy to replace.
Can a bad coolant sensor be a problem?
You can have a bad sensor even without a “check engine” light or trouble code. We could tell you how to test it, but they’re so cheap (about $15) and easy to replace, that it makes more sense to just replace an engine coolant temperature sensor.
What should coolant temp be when engine is hot?
With a good OBD2 code reader, you can also check the live data and the parameters of the CTS sensor. Check that the temperature value of the CTS is around 80-90c when the engine is hot. A lot of engine coolant temperature sensors have two wires and the sensor is controlled by Ohm.
How can I check the coolant level in my car?
Step 1: Start the vehicle. Let it warm up to operating temperature. Step 2: Check for leaks. Be sure to check for leaks from the radiator drain plug, petcock, or the coolant temperature sensor. Step 3: Check to see if the check engine or low coolant level light is illuminated.
When your coolant temperature sensor should be replaced?
Often, the engine coolant temperature sensor must be replaced at about 100,000 miles. If you don’t properly maintain the engine cooling system, the sensor could fail much earlier. If that happens, the check engine light will come on, and then a service technician will use a diagnostic scan tool to determine the problem.
What are the symptoms of a bad coolant temperature sensor?
Another symptom of a problem with the coolant temperature sensor is an overheating engine. The coolant temperature sensor can also fail in a manner that causes it to send a permanently hot signal. This can cause the computer to incorrectly compensate for a lean signal, which can result in overheating, and even misfires or engine ping.
How do I change the coolant temp sensor?
Part 2 of 3: Remove and replace the coolant temperature sensor Make sure vehicle is on a level working area. Locate the coolant temperature sensor. The first item that needs to be completed after you compiled all of your tools and assets is to locate the coolant temperature Jack the front end for clearance. Remove radiator cap and overflow cap. Drain the radiator. Replace drain plug.
What does a bad coolant sensor do?
A failing coolant temperature sensor will prevent a vehicle’s engine from entering a closed loop. This will cause the vehicle to run rich meaning the engine’s fuel mixture will have a higher percentage of fuel to air which will result in diminished fuel economy.
Where is the coolant temperature sensor on a Volkswagen?
The coolant temperature sensor is a common part that sometimes requires replacement on a Volkswagen. The coolant temperature sensor is exposed to the coolant flow inside the vehicle’s engine block or engine cylinder head, or both.
What’s the best way to remove a coolant sensor?
Park your car in a safe place where you can work comfortably and let the engine cool. 2. Place a clean drain pan under the radiator, open the radiator valve and drain about two to three quarts of coolant (or just enough to drop the level below the sensor). Then close the drain valve. This will minimize coolant waste when you remove the CT sensor.