One of the first symptoms associated with a problem with the coolant temperature sensor is poor fuel economy. If the coolant temperature sensor goes bad it can
send a false signal to the computer and throw off the fuel and timing calculations
. … This will reduce fuel economy, and may hinder engine performance.
What does a faulty ECT sensor do?
The signal from the coolant temperature sensor
tells the engine's computer when to apply extra gasoline during a cold start
. A faulty sensor can confuse the computer, keeping it from providing enough fuel. As a result, the engine may hesitate or stall.
How do you know if your ECT sensor is bad?
- Poor Fuel Economy. …
- Irregular Temperature Readings. …
- Black Smoke from Your Exhaust. …
- Your Engine is Overheating. …
- Your Check Engine Light is On.
Can you drive with a bad ECT sensor?
It is possible to drive a vehicle with a faulty coolant temperature sensor
as the management system defaults to a static reading. A vehicle's coolant sensor is a critical component used by the engine management system. It directly affects, cooling and fueling of the engine and therefore affects how the engine performs.
How do I test my ECT sensor?
- Start with a cold engine. …
- Attach an ohmmeter across the sensor's terminals.
- Measure the sensor's resistance and record the reading.
- Reconnect the sensor wiring connector.
- Start and run the engine for two minutes, then shut the engine off.
How much does it cost to replace ECT sensor?
To replace the ECT sensor, you are going to pay, on
average, $95-$140
. How much you pay depends on the type of car you own and where you go for servicing. Each mechanic has their own rates, and they may be getting their parts from a variety of vendors, which can change how much the parts cost you.
Can a bad ECT sensor cause overheating?
If the coolant temperature sensor malfunctions, it could cause your car engine to get
overheated
. While sometimes a faulty sensor sends a permanent cold signal to the engine, it can also send a permanent hot signal.
Can a bad coolant temp sensor cause hard start?
If the sensor is reading too high of temperature when compared to the ambient air temperature sensor when first started then the computer would see it as a problem and turn on the check engine light to use a known good reading.
No start will not be caused by the sensor
.
Does the coolant temp sensor control the fan?
The sensor works by
measuring the temperature
that's being given off by the thermostat and/or the coolant itself. The temperature is then sent to the on-board control system. … As the control system receives the temperature from the CTS, it may trigger the cooling fan to either shut off or turn on.
What happens if you drive with a bad coolant temp sensor?
Faulty readings from the coolant temperature sensor can
cause your car's engine to miscalculate the fuel to air mixture within the engine
. … If the amount of black smoke emitting from your car is excessive, then you should not drive your car and you should tow your vehicle to a mechanic.
Can you run a car without a temperature sensor?
Most automobile mechanics will tell you it is not a good idea to drive your car without a
thermostat
installed. If your thermostat becomes stuck in the closed position, though, this will cause your engine to overheat and make driving your car impossible.
What does a temp sensor do?
A coolant temperature sensor (CTS) (also known as an ECT sensor or ECTS (engine coolant temperature sensor) is
used to measure the temperature of the coolant/antifreeze mix in the cooling system
, giving an indication of how much heat the engine is giving off.
How do you trick a temperature sensor?
Alternatively if that doesn't work and you're feeling salty about it,
put a cup of ice below it
, or tape an cold pack ( like the ones you use for lunch box) to it because it will trick the sensor into thinking it's colder than it is, and will engage the heat.
Where is the ECT sensor located?
The ECT sensor is located in
the left of the cylinder head
and is connected to the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor. Underneath the air intake pipe and behind the right cylinder head is where the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor is located.
What type of sensor is a coolant temp sensor?
The coolant temperature sensor is fastened to the intake manifold of an engine coolant and is often referred to as a
negative temperature coefficient type of sensor
. In terms of resistance capacity, this coolant sensor has 20,000 ohms at 248 degrees Fahrenheit.
How long does it take to replace ECT sensor?
The actual process of replacing the coolant temperature sensor is extremely simple. However, the difficult work comes in the preparation of the cooling system – both before and after. Tip: This job should only be completed when the engine is cold and has not been running for
a minimum of one hour
.
