AutoCodes – Toyota – P0116 2002 Toyota Highlander

P0116 2002 Toyota Highlander Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Range/Performance Problem

Quick Answer

The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor is used to detect the engine coolant temperature. Common causes include Low engine coolant level, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor, Faulty engine coolant thermostat. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P0116 2002 Toyota Highlander indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Range/Performance Problem.
Common causes: Common causes include Low engine coolant level, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor, Faulty engine coolant thermostat.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 3,656

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0116 2002 Toyota Highlander Description

The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor is used to detect the engine coolant temperature. The sensor modifies a voltage signal from the Engine Control Module (ECM). The modified signal returns to the ECM as the engine coolant temperature input. The sensor uses a thermistor which is sensitive to the change in temperature. The electrical resistance of the thermistor decreases as temperature increases.

OBDII Code P0116 2002 Toyota Highlander - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Range/Performance Problem - AutoCodes.com — P0116 2002 Toyota Highlander Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Range/Performance Problem

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0116 2002 Toyota Highlander?

Low engine coolant level
Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor
Faulty engine coolant thermostat
Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor harness is open or shorted
Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0116 2002 Toyota Highlander?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0116 2002 Toyota Highlander code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P0116 2002 Toyota Highlander code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0116 2002 Toyota Highlander code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0116 2002 Toyota Highlander code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0116 2002 Toyota Highlander Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0116 in a 2002 Toyota Highlander?

- Common symptoms include engine overheating, rough idling, poor fuel economy, and the check engine light being illuminated.

2. What does the OBDII code P0116 indicate in a 2002 Toyota Highlander?

- OBDII code P0116 indicates an Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Range/Performance Problem in the 2002 Toyota Highlander.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0116 in a 2002 Toyota Highlander?

- Possible causes include a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, low coolant level, or a malfunctioning thermostat.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0116 in my 2002 Toyota Highlander?

- Diagnose the code by checking the engine coolant level, inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, testing the engine coolant temperature sensor, and verifying proper thermostat operation.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P0116 in my 2002 Toyota Highlander?

- Repair options include replacing the faulty engine coolant temperature sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, topping up coolant levels, and replacing a malfunctioning thermostat.

6. Can driving with OBDII code P0116 in a 2002 Toyota Highlander cause further damage?

- Driving with this code may lead to engine overheating, potential damage to engine components, reduced fuel efficiency, and poor performance.

7. Will OBDII code P0116 in a 2002 Toyota Highlander affect the vehicle's emissions?

- Yes, a malfunctioning engine coolant temperature sensor can affect fuel mixture control and emissions output, potentially leading to increased emissions.

8. How urgent is it to address OBDII code P0116 in a 2002 Toyota Highlander?

- It is important to address this code promptly to prevent potential engine damage, overheating, and to ensure optimal vehicle performance and fuel efficiency.

9. Can I reset the check engine light after repairing OBDII code P0116 in my 2002 Toyota Highlander?

- Yes, the check engine light can be reset using an OBDII scanner after repairing the issue causing code P0116 in the 2002 Toyota Highlander.

10. Is it recommended to seek professional help for diagnosing and repairing OBDII code P0116 in a 2002 Toyota Highlander?

- If you are not experienced in automotive diagnostics and repairs, it is recommended to seek professional help to accurately diagnose and repair code P0116 in a 2002 Toyota Highlander.