AutoCodes – Generic – P0119

P0119 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Intermittent

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: P0119 indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Intermittent.
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 36,282

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 May 20, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes ▶
Cost to Diagnose
Comments
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Code P0119 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.

Sensor Example:

OBDII Code P0119 - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Intermittent - AutoCodes.com — P0119 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Intermittent

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0119?

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 electrical circuit poor connection

How to Fix the DTC P0119?

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

User Submitted Video

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0119 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 P0119 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0119 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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Information for Specific Makes

P0119 Buick — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Intermittent
P0119 Cadillac — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Intermittent
P0119 Chevrolet — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Intermittent
P0119 Ford — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Intermittent
P0119 GMC — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Intermittent
P0119 Hyundai — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Intermittent
P0119 KIA — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Intermittent
P0119 Lincoln — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Intermittent
P0119 Mazda — Engine Coolant Temperature Signal Intermittent
P0119 Mercedes-Benz — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Intermittent

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.