P0117 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
Quick Answer
The engine coolant temperature sensor is used to monitor the engine coolant temperature. Common causes include Low engine coolant level, Faulty Engine Coolant Thermostat, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor. 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
- P0117 indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Low engine coolant level, Faulty Engine Coolant Thermostat, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor.
- 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.
Code P0117 Description
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0117?
- Low engine coolant level
- Faulty Engine Coolant Thermostat
- Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor
- Engine Coolant Temperature sensor harness is open or shorted
- Engine Coolant Temperature sensor circuit poor electrical connection
- Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)
How to Fix the DTC P0117?
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.
Code Tech Notes
User Submitted Video
What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?
Labor: 1.0
To diagnose the P0117 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.
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Information for Specific Makes
- P0117 Acura — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage
- P0117 Audi — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low
- P0117 BMW — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low
- P0117 Buick — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input
- P0117 Cadillac — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input
- P0117 Chevrolet — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input
- P0117 Chrysler — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
- P0117 Dodge — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
- P0117 Ford — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low
- P0117 GMC — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input
- P0117 Honda — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage
- P0117 Hyundai — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input
- P0117 Infiniti — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low
- P0117 Isuzu — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Voltage
- P0117 Jaguar — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input
- P0117 Jeep — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
- P0117 KIA — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low Input
- P0117 Lexus — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input
- P0117 Lincoln — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low
- P0117 Mazda — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input
- P0117 Mercedes-Benz — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input
- P0117 Mercury — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low
- P0117 MINI — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low
- P0117 Mitsubishi — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Low Input
- P0117 Nissan — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low
- P0117 Pontiac — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input
- P0117 Saturn — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input
- P0117 Scion — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input
- P0117 Subaru — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input
- P0117 Toyota — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input
- P0117 Volkswagen — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input
Frequently Asked Questions about P0117 Code
1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P0117 (Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low)?
- Common symptoms include inaccurate temperature readings on the dashboard, poor fuel economy, difficulty starting the engine, and potential engine overheating.
2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0117?
- The code P0117 can be triggered by a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, low coolant level, or a malfunctioning thermostat.
3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P0117?
- You can diagnose the cause of P0117 by checking the coolant level, visually inspecting the sensor and its wiring for damage, testing the sensor's resistance with a multimeter, and scanning for any additional trouble codes.
4. Can a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor cause OBDII code P0117?
- Yes, a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor can cause code P0117 by providing incorrect temperature readings to the engine control module.
5. How can I repair OBDII code P0117?
- To repair code P0117, you may need to replace the engine coolant temperature sensor, repair any damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, refill the coolant if low, or replace a malfunctioning thermostat.
6. Is it safe to drive with OBDII code P0117 active?
- It is not recommended to drive with code P0117 active, as it can lead to engine performance issues, potential overheating, and other complications that may cause further damage.
7. Can a dirty engine coolant temperature sensor trigger code P0117?
- Yes, a dirty engine coolant temperature sensor can cause inaccurate readings and potentially trigger code P0117. Cleaning or replacing the sensor may resolve the issue.
8. What role does the engine coolant temperature sensor play in the vehicle's operation?
- The engine coolant temperature sensor helps the engine control module monitor the temperature of the coolant, allowing it to adjust fuel delivery and ignition timing for optimal engine performance.
9. How do I reset OBDII code P0117 after making repairs?
- After making the necessary repairs for code P0117, you can reset the code using an OBDII scanner or by disconnecting the vehicle's battery for a few minutes to clear the stored fault code.
10. Are there any DIY tips for troubleshooting OBDII code P0117 before seeking professional help?
- DIY tips for troubleshooting code P0117 include checking the coolant level, inspecting the sensor and wiring visually, performing resistance tests on the sensor, and ensuring proper coolant circulation in the system.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P0117 OBDII Code
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Depends on the on your make, model and year. On most vehicles it is a do it yourself job.
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