AutoCodes – Toyota – P0118 2017 Toyota RAV4

P0118 2017 Toyota RAV4 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit High Input

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: P0118 2017 Toyota RAV4 indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit High Input.
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.

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Code Popularity 1,293

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 Aug 23, 2022

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0118 2017 Toyota RAV4 Description

The engine coolant temperature sensor is used to monitor the engine coolant temperature. The engine coolant temperature sensor has a thermistor with a resistance that varies according to the temperature of the engine coolant. When the coolant temperature is low, the resistance in the thermistor increases. When the temperature is high, the resistance drops. These variations in resistance are reflected in the output voltage from the sensor. The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the sensor voltage and uses this value to calculate the engine coolant temperature. When the sensor output voltage deviates from the normal operating range, the ECM interprets this as a fault in the engine coolant temperature sensor circuit and stores a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC).

OBDII Code P0118 2017 Toyota RAV4 - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit High Input - AutoCodes.com — P0118 2017 Toyota RAV4 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit High Input

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0118 2017 Toyota RAV4?

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 P0118 2017 Toyota RAV4?

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

Start by checking the engine coolant level at the coolant reservoir, a low level may indicate a coolant leak. If the coolant level is correct, you should replace the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor to fix the problem. The Engine Coolant Thermostat must be replaced every time there is a repair with the coolant system.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0118 2017 Toyota RAV4 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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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 P0118 2017 Toyota RAV4 Code

1. What does OBDII code P0118 on a 2017 Toyota RAV4 mean?

The code P0118 indicates an issue with the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor circuit, specifically signaling a high input reading.

2. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0118 in a 2017 Toyota RAV4?

Common symptoms include the engine running hotter than normal, poor fuel economy, rough idling, and the Check Engine light illuminating on the dashboard.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0118 in a 2017 Toyota RAV4?

Potential causes of code P0118 include a faulty ECT sensor, a malfunctioning thermostat, wiring issues in the ECT circuit, low coolant levels, or a problem with the engine control module (ECM).

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0118 in my 2017 Toyota RAV4?

To diagnose P0118, you can use a scan tool to check the ECT sensor readings, inspect the wiring for any damage, test the thermostat, and verify coolant levels in the system.

5. Can I continue driving my 2017 Toyota RAV4 with OBDII code P0118?

It's not recommended to drive with code P0118 as it can lead to overheating issues and potential engine damage. It's best to address the problem promptly.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0118 in my 2017 Toyota RAV4?

Repairing P0118 may involve replacing the ECT sensor, fixing any wiring issues, checking and replacing the thermostat if necessary, and ensuring the coolant system is functioning correctly.

7. Will resetting the Check Engine light resolve OBDII code P0118 in my 2017 Toyota RAV4?

Resetting the light may temporarily turn it off, but it won't fix the underlying issue causing code P0118. It's crucial to diagnose and address the problem to prevent further issues.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0118 in a 2017 Toyota RAV4?

The cost of repairing P0118 can vary depending on the root cause of the issue. It may range from replacing a faulty sensor (around $50-$200) to addressing more complex wiring or ECM problems.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0118 in a 2017 Toyota RAV4?

Depending on the cause, DIY enthusiasts with some mechanical knowledge may be able to replace the ECT sensor or check basic wiring. However, more complex issues may require professional help.

10. Is OBDII code P0118 a serious problem in a 2017 Toyota RAV4?

While P0118 is not an emergency, it should be addressed promptly to prevent potential overheating and engine damage. Ignoring the issue can lead to more severe problems down the line.