So a bad coolant temp sensor can cause drivability issues, increased fuel consumption and increased engine wear. It will also likely mean that the coolant temperature gauge (if it has one, many cars now only have idiot lights) doesn't work.
3 Symptoms of temperature sensor and thermocouple errors
The symptoms of temperature sensor and thermocouple errors can differ depending on the type and severity of the issue. However, erratic or inconsistent readings, out-of-range or unrealistic readings, and no readings or signal loss are common signs.
Coolant level sensors report low radiator coolant. Symptoms of a bad coolant level sensor include an illuminated check engine light, an untriggered coolant level sensor, and an overheating engine.
If your AC shows irregular temperatures, where sometimes it's much cooler than other times, this can indicate AC sensor malfunction. This, in turn, will lead to AC sensors needing replacement.
A malfunctioning sensor might cause the AC unit to cycle rapidly or continuously. This is because the sensor fails to detect the actual temperature accurately, leading to frequent on-off cycles, which can wear out the system and increase energy consumption.
If your coolant temperature sensor is failing or has failed, do not continue driving your vehicle. You should get it fixed right away. A faulty sensor can lead to overheating. This will cause damage to your engine as well as other components, which will be very expensive to fix.
It's not recommended to unplug the coolant temperature sensor unless necessary for diagnostic purposes, as it can adversely affect engine operation and potentially cause damage if left unplugged for an extended period.
No, the coolant temperature sensor cannot be reset.
The engine coolant temperature sensor, or ECT is just a resistor affected by temperature—nothing's being stored on it and it has no software.
Incorrect Temperature Gauge Reading
If the gauge or indicator reading is off by more than a few degrees, then the sensor is likely faulty.
If the 'Check Engine' light suddenly comes on, this could imply a hitch with the coolant temperature sensor. If the computer detects an unsavory development with the sensor's circuit or signal, it may set off the 'Check Engine' light. And the light will not go off until a specialist readily addresses the issue.
Replacing a coolant temperature sensor is a relatively straightforward task that can be completed with the right tools and knowledge.
Symptoms of a bad ambient air temperature sensor
Erratic temperature fluctuations: The ambient temperature reading may fluctuate suddenly and erratically, jumping between extreme temperature values or changing rapidly without a logical pattern. This can happen regardless of the actual outdoor temperature.
Symptoms of a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor
Among the most common are an increase to fuel consumption, difficult engine starts, and higher idling speeds. Other indicators can include black smoke emanating from the exhaust pipe and cooling fans not activating. Often, the “Check Engine” light will turn on.
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.
Mechanical stress: Excessive mechanical stress or vibration can damage the sensor's delicate components or connections, causing it to malfunction. Electrical overload: Overvoltage or electrical surges can damage the sensor's internal circuitry, leading to failure.
While you can still drive with a faulty temperature gauge, it's not a good idea. Without accurate readings from the gauge, you might overstress the engine, causing additional problems.
The fault with a coolant sensor can manifest in two ways- A coolant temperature sensor that always reads cold may cause the fuel management system to mix fuel with less oxygen and waste fuel. On the other hand, a sensor that always reads hot can cause problems such as stalling, hick-ups, and rough idling.
Where is the Coolant Temperature Sensor located? The coolant temperature sensor will be located directly behind the coolant pipe. In most modern cars and vehicles, this is present behind the right cylinder head that is located right underneath the air intake pipe.
Touching a person's forehead with the back of the hand is a common method of telling whether or not they have a fever. If the person has a fever, their forehead may feel very hot. This can be inaccurate, but it may provide some general information.