AutoCodes – Toyota – P0116 2016 Toyota RAV4

P0116 2016 Toyota RAV4 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Range / Performance Problem

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: P0116 2016 Toyota RAV4 indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Range / Performance Problem.
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 7,053

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
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0116 2016 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 P0116 2016 Toyota RAV4 - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Range / Performance Problem - AutoCodes.com — P0116 2016 Toyota RAV4 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Range / Performance Problem

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0116 2016 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 P0116 2016 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 P0116 2016 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 P0116 2016 Toyota RAV4 Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0116 mean on a 2016 Toyota RAV4?

P0116 indicates an "Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Range/Performance Problem," meaning the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor is reporting readings that are outside the expected range.

2. What are common symptoms of code P0116 on a 2016 Toyota RAV4?

Common symptoms include poor fuel economy, difficulty starting the engine, rough idling, overheating, or the engine not reaching the proper operating temperature.

3. What causes the P0116 code on a 2016 Toyota RAV4?

Common causes include a faulty ECT sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a stuck thermostat, low coolant levels, or an issue with the engine control module (ECM).

4. Can low coolant levels cause the P0116 code on a 2016 Toyota RAV4?

Yes, low coolant levels can affect the ECT sensor's ability to detect accurate temperatures, potentially triggering the P0116 code.

5. How do I fix the P0116 code on my 2016 Toyota RAV4?

Start by checking the coolant level, inspecting the ECT sensor and its wiring for damage, testing the thermostat, and replacing any faulty components as needed.

6. Where is the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor located on a 2016 Toyota RAV4?

The ECT sensor is typically located near the thermostat housing on the engine block.

7. How can I test the ECT sensor on a 2016 Toyota RAV4?

You can test the ECT sensor using a multimeter to check the resistance at various temperatures or by comparing live data from a diagnostic scanner to the actual engine temperature.

8. Can I drive my 2016 Toyota RAV4 with the P0116 code?

While the vehicle may still run, driving with this code can lead to poor performance, increased fuel consumption, or potential engine damage if the problem is not addressed.

9. How much does it cost to fix the P0116 code on a 2016 Toyota RAV4?

Repair costs vary, but replacing the ECT sensor typically costs $100-$200, while addressing other issues like a stuck thermostat or wiring repairs may increase the cost.

10. Will clearing the P0116 code fix the problem on a 2016 Toyota RAV4?

Clearing the code will turn off the warning light temporarily, but the problem will return if the underlying issue is not resolved.