AutoCodes – Honda – P0116 1998 Honda Civic

P0116 1998 Honda Civic Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance Problem

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: P0116 1998 Honda Civic indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance Problem.
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 5,502

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 P0116 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 P0116 1998 Honda Civic - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance Problem - AutoCodes.com — P0116 1998 Honda Civic Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance Problem

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0116 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 P0116 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 P0116 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 P0116 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 P0116 1998 Honda Civic Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0116 on a 1998 Honda Civic?

The common symptoms of code P0116 on a 1998 Honda Civic include erratic temperature gauge readings, overheating, poor fuel economy, and possibly a check engine light.

2. What causes the OBDII code P0116 on a 1998 Honda Civic?

The most common cause of code P0116 on a 1998 Honda Civic is a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor or a wiring issue related to the sensor circuit.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0116 on my 1998 Honda Civic?

To diagnose code P0116 on a 1998 Honda Civic, you can use an OBDII scanner to check for the code, visually inspect the engine coolant temperature sensor, and test the sensor's resistance with a multimeter.

4. Can a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor cause other issues besides triggering code P0116 on a 1998 Honda Civic?

Yes, a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor on a 1998 Honda Civic can also cause poor engine performance, rough idling, and difficulties starting the vehicle.

5. How do I repair the OBDII code P0116 on a 1998 Honda Civic?

To repair code P0116 on a 1998 Honda Civic, you will need to replace the engine coolant temperature sensor if it is faulty, check and repair any damaged wiring in the sensor circuit, and clear the trouble code from the vehicle's computer.

6. Is it safe to continue driving my 1998 Honda Civic with OBDII code P0116?

It is not recommended to drive your 1998 Honda Civic with code P0116 as it can lead to engine overheating, potential damage, and poor fuel efficiency.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0116 on a 1998 Honda Civic?

Yes, if you have the necessary tools and knowledge, you can replace the engine coolant temperature sensor and address any wiring issues related to code P0116 on a 1998 Honda Civic.

8. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code P0116 on a 1998 Honda Civic at a mechanic?

The cost to repair code P0116 on a 1998 Honda Civic at a mechanic can vary depending on the labor rates and parts needed, but it typically ranges from $100 to $300.

9. Will resetting the check engine light fix OBDII code P0116 on a 1998 Honda Civic?

Resetting the check engine light will not fix code P0116 on a 1998 Honda Civic. The underlying issue with the engine coolant temperature sensor needs to be addressed to prevent the code from reoccurring.

10. How often does OBDII code P0116 occur in 1998 Honda Civics?

Code P0116 related to the engine coolant temperature sensor circuit can occur sporadically in 1998 Honda Civics, but it is a relatively common issue that may need attention if symptoms persist.