What does a bad temperature sensor look like?
An illuminated Check Engine Light is another symptom of a potential problem with the coolant temperature sensor. For some vehicles the computer will set off a Check Engine Light if it detects a problem with the sensor’s signal or circuit. The Check Engine Light will remain on until the issue is addressed.
What does the coolant temperature sensor look like?
Most coolant temperature sensors resemble a large nut with an electrical connector on top. Photo courtesy of l0lnix on Flickr. The engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor test is simple and can help you fix your car faster. You can do it at home using a digital multimeter and a cooking thermometer.
What to do if your coolant sensor is not working?
So, if the sensor doesn’t work properly, your temperature gauge won’t be of much help either. By using the thermometer, it won’t take you long to figure out that the thermostat isn’t working. You’ll notice the engine’s temperature is not rising above 85 or 90 degrees, for example.
How can I get the coolant temperature of my car?
Get the engine surface temperature using an infrared thermometer or suitable cooking thermometer. Take the engine temperature on a location near the coolant temperature sensor. Okay, at this point you may be wondering why you need to take the engine temperature to troubleshoot the sensor.
What kind of connector do I need for coolant sensor?
Glass fiber-reinforced plastic polymer connector ensures excellent dimensional stability and proper mating connector fit across temperature extremes This video dishes out tips for replacing a coolant temperature sensor on a 2.7 liter engine. Here’s what you need to know for the job:
What should the temp of the coolant sensor be?
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. Get a wiring diagram and find out what ohms you should have at a specific temperature to check the function.
How do you disconnect a coolant temperature sensor?
Disconnect the electrical connector. The connector may plug into the sensor itself, or there may be “pigtail” wires leading from the sensor with the connector on the end of the wires. These connectors have a locking tab so that the connection remains secure.
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 do you know if your engine is cool?
Step 1: Be sure the engine is cool. Locate the main pressure cap for the cooling system and open it enough to relieve any pressure in the cooling system, then reinstall the cap so it seals properly. Step 2. Locate the coolant temperature sensor.