AutoCodesHonda – P0116 Honda

P0116 Honda Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance Problem

Quick Answer

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) supplies voltage to the engine coolant temperature signal circuit (about 5 V) through a pull-up resistor. Common causes include Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor 1, Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted, Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection. 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 Honda indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance Problem.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor 1, Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted, Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection.
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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 32,568
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jul 31, 2023
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Code P0116 Honda Description

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) supplies voltage to the engine coolant temperature signal circuit (about 5 V) through a pull-up resistor. As the engine coolant cools, the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor 1 resistance increases and the PCM detects a high signal voltage. As the engine coolant warms, the ECT Sensor 1 resistance decreases, and the PCM detects a low signal voltage. If the ECT Sensor 1 output voltage does not reach a set temperature after starting the engine and driving at a set time, or when the difference between the ECT Sensor 1 output voltage while driving and the output voltage of ECT Sensor 1 after the engine has been stopped a certain length of time does not change a certain amount, the PCM detects a malfunction and stores a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC).
OBDII Code P0116 Honda - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance Problem - AutoCodes.com
P0116 Honda Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance Problem

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0116 Honda?

  • Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor 1
  • Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 harness is open or shorted
  • Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 circuit poor electrical connection
  • Faulty Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

How to Fix the DTC P0116 Honda?

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 Honda 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 Honda code?

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

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0116 Honda code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Honda Models

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 Honda Code

1. What does the P0116 code mean on a Honda?

P0116 indicates an issue with the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor 1, specifically that the sensor's signal is out of the expected range or inconsistent with engine operating conditions.

2. What are common symptoms of the P0116 code in a Honda?

Symptoms may include difficulty starting, poor fuel efficiency, rough idling, engine overheating, or the coolant temperature gauge displaying incorrect readings.

3. What causes the P0116 code on a Honda?

Common causes include a faulty ECT sensor, wiring or connector issues, low or contaminated coolant, or a stuck thermostat.

4. Can I drive my Honda with the P0116 code?

While it might be possible to drive, it’s not recommended as the issue could lead to engine overheating or inefficient performance, potentially causing further damage.

5. How do I fix the P0116 code on a Honda?

Start by checking the coolant level and condition, inspecting the ECT sensor and wiring for damage, and testing the thermostat for proper operation. Replace faulty components as needed.

6. How do I test the ECT sensor for the P0116 code?

Use a multimeter to measure the resistance of the ECT sensor at different temperatures. Compare the results to your Honda’s service manual specifications to see if the sensor is functioning properly.

7. Can low coolant cause the P0116 code on a Honda?

Yes, low or contaminated coolant can cause inaccurate temperature readings, triggering the P0116 code.

8. What does the ECT sensor do in a Honda?

The ECT sensor monitors the engine’s coolant temperature and sends this information to the engine control module (ECM) to adjust fuel delivery, ignition timing, and other parameters.

9. How much does it cost to fix the P0116 code on a Honda?

Costs vary depending on the issue, but replacing the ECT sensor typically ranges from $50 to $150, while thermostat replacement may cost $150 to $300.

10. Will clearing the P0116 code fix the problem?

Clearing the code without addressing the underlying issue will not fix the problem. The code is likely to return if the root cause is not resolved.

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