What problems can a bad coolant temp sensor cause?
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.
What are the symptoms of a bad coolant temperature sensor?
Hence, it is advised to have your car inspected right away to avoid any serious problems. Here is a more detailed list of the common symptoms of a bad coolant temperature sensor. One of the first symptoms you will notice is that the check engine light will activate.
How much does a coolant temperature sensor cost?
$92.73 – $160.32. Price range for all vehicles. Average rating from 17,525 customers who received a Change Oil and Filter. The coolant temperature sensor, also known as the coolant temperature switch, is an engine management system sensor that is used to monitor the temperature of the engine’s coolant.
How does a coolant sensor work on an engine?
Most coolant temperature sensors operate using electrical resistance to measure the temperature of the coolant. This signal is then sent to the computer so that changes can be made to the engine’s timing and fuel calculations for optimal performance, as engines require more fuel when they are cold, and less fuel when they are fully warmed up.
What does the coolant temperature sensor tell you?
The ECT sensor, also commonly just called the coolant temperature sensor, measures how hot the engine in your car is. Fuel delivery, ignition timing and engine performance are among the key elements affected by the information the coolant temperature sensor gathers.
Can a bad coolant sensor cause a car to not start?
Some cars use the engine coolant temperature sensor to control the electric cooling fans. You have two separate temperature sensors for the fans, dashboard gauge, and engine management in most cars. However, if your car has a single sensor, a bad engine coolant temperature sensor may result in your fans won’t start at all.
How much does it cost to replace a coolant temperature sensor?
Unscrew the ECT sensor in an anticlockwise direction, similar to how a spark plug is removed. Install the new sensor and reconnect the connector cable. The average replacement cost of the Coolant Temperature Sensor is between $100 and $220. The labour cost is between $40 and $140 while the part itself costs between $50 and $80.
What happens if your ECT sensor is bad?
Once the car is warm, it switches to relying on the oxygen sensors for a more precise reading. A failed ECT sensor can prevent this change from happening, resulting in a rich-running engine and poor fuel economy. 4. Your engine runs poorly: The sensor affects almost every aspect of engine management.