P0116: Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Range/Performance
Can you still drive? Yes, but monitor your temperature gauge closely. If the engine is overheating, stop driving immediately to prevent head gasket or engine damage.
What Does P0116 Mean?
Code P0116 indicates that the engine coolant temperature sensor reading is not changing as expected during engine warm-up or operation. Unlike P0115 which is a circuit fault, P0116 means the sensor is reading but the values are outside the expected range or the warm-up rate is abnormal. This can indicate a stuck thermostat, sensor drift, or coolant system issue.
Need to read your codes?
An OBD-II scanner lets you read and clear diagnostic trouble codes from your vehicle's computer. Most scanners work with any car made after 1996.
Browse OBD-II Scanners on AmazonCommon Causes
- Thermostat stuck open or closed
- ECT sensor drifting out of calibration
- Air pocket in the cooling system
- Low coolant level
- Faulty ECT sensor
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Engine takes too long to warm up or overheats
- Temperature gauge reads abnormally
- Heater output inconsistent
- Poor fuel economy during warm-up
Diagnostic Steps
- 1Monitor ECT sensor temperature during warm-up with scan tool and verify it climbs steadily
- 2Compare ECT sensor reading to an infrared thermometer reading on the thermostat housing
- 3Inspect coolant level and look for air in the system
- 4Check thermostat operation by feeling upper radiator hose temperature during warm-up
- 5Replace ECT sensor if readings deviate more than 10 degrees from actual temperature
Recommended Parts & Tools
engine coolant temperature sensor
infrared thermometer
Estimated Repair Cost
| Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Total Repair Cost Range | $50 - $400 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is P0116 the sensor or the thermostat?
P0116 can be caused by either. The most reliable way to tell is to compare the ECT sensor reading on a scan tool with an infrared thermometer reading on the engine. If they match, the sensor is accurate and the thermostat is likely the issue.
Can air in the cooling system cause P0116?
Yes. Air pockets around the ECT sensor can cause it to read incorrectly. Bleed the cooling system if you recently had coolant work done.
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