AutoCodes – Honda – P0117 1998 Honda Civic

P0117 1998 Honda Civic Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage

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: P0117 1998 Honda Civic indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage.
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 8,912

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
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0117 1998 Honda Civic 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 P0117 1998 Honda Civic - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P0117 1998 Honda Civic Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0117 1998 Honda Civic?

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 P0117 1998 Honda Civic?

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 does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

First check to see if there are any coolant leaks and if the thermostat is opening, if problem is still there replace the coolant temperature sensor.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0117 1998 Honda Civic 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 P0117 1998 Honda Civic code?

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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 P0117 1998 Honda Civic Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0117 on a 1998 Honda Civic?

The common symptoms of code P0117 on a 1998 Honda Civic include poor fuel economy, rough idling, engine stalling, and issues with the vehicle's heating system.

2. What does the OBDII code P0117 on a 1998 Honda Civic indicate?

Code P0117 indicates a problem with the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor 1 Circuit, specifically low voltage being detected.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0117 on a 1998 Honda Civic?

Potential causes of code P0117 on a 1998 Honda Civic include a faulty ECT sensor, a damaged sensor connector or wiring, low coolant levels, or issues with the engine's cooling system.

4. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P0117 on my 1998 Honda Civic?

To diagnose code P0117, you can use a multimeter to test the ECT sensor's resistance, check the sensor's wiring for any damage, inspect the coolant level, and scan for any other related trouble codes.

5. Can a faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor cause code P0117 on a 1998 Honda Civic?

Yes, a faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor is a common cause of code P0117 on a 1998 Honda Civic. If the sensor is not functioning properly, it may send incorrect voltage readings to the vehicle's ECM.

6. How do I repair OBDII code P0117 on my 1998 Honda Civic?

To repair code P0117, you may need to replace the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, repair any damaged wiring or connectors, top up the coolant levels, and clear the trouble codes from the vehicle's computer.

7. Is it safe to continue driving my 1998 Honda Civic with OBDII code P0117?

It is not recommended to drive your 1998 Honda Civic with an unresolved P0117 code, as it can lead to poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential overheating issues. Address the problem promptly to prevent further damage.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0117 on a 1998 Honda Civic?

Depending on your skill level and access to tools, DIY enthusiasts can often diagnose and repair code P0117 on a 1998 Honda Civic. However, if you're unsure or uncomfortable with the task, it's best to seek professional help.

9. Will resetting the trouble codes clear OBDII code P0117 on my 1998 Honda Civic?

Resetting the trouble codes may temporarily clear the P0117 code, but if the underlying issue is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear. It's crucial to diagnose and fix the root cause of the problem.

10. How important is the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor for the overall performance of a 1998 Honda Civic?

The Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor plays a critical role in the proper functioning of a 1998 Honda Civic's engine, as it helps regulate fuel mixture, ignition timing, and overall engine performance. Resolving issues with this sensor is essential for optimal vehicle operation.