AutoCodes – Honda – P0117 1996 Honda Civic

P0117 1996 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 1996 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 10,423

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 1996 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 1996 Honda Civic - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage - AutoCodes.com — P0117 1996 Honda Civic Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0117 1996 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 1996 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 1996 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 1996 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 1996 Honda Civic Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P0117 in a 1996 Honda Civic?

- Common symptoms include poor fuel economy, rough idling, engine overheating, and in some cases, the Check Engine light may illuminate.

2. What causes the OBDII code P0117 in a 1996 Honda Civic?

- The most common cause is a faulty engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor or a problem with the sensor's circuit, leading to low voltage readings.

3. How can I diagnose the issue related to OBDII code P0117 in my 1996 Honda Civic?

- Diagnose by checking the ECT sensor's wiring for damage, testing the sensor's resistance, and ensuring proper coolant levels and flow in the system.

4. Can a malfunctioning thermostat cause OBDII code P0117 in a 1996 Honda Civic?

- Yes, a faulty thermostat can cause incorrect temperature readings, which may trigger the P0117 code due to irregular coolant temperature fluctuations.

5. Is it safe to continue driving with OBDII code P0117 in my 1996 Honda Civic?

- It is not recommended to drive with the P0117 code as it can lead to potential engine damage and overheating issues if the coolant temperature is not accurately monitored.

6. How do I repair OBDII code P0117 in my 1996 Honda Civic?

- Repair involves replacing the engine coolant temperature sensor if it is faulty, ensuring proper electrical connections, and clearing the trouble codes to reset the system.

7. Can a dirty or corroded ECT sensor connector cause OBDII code P0117 in a 1996 Honda Civic?

- Yes, a dirty or corroded connector can disrupt the electrical signal from the sensor, leading to low voltage readings and triggering the P0117 code.

8. Will resetting the Check Engine light make OBDII code P0117 disappear in my 1996 Honda Civic?

- Resetting the light may clear the code temporarily, but it is crucial to address the underlying issue causing the P0117 code to prevent it from reoccurring.

9. What role does the engine coolant temperature sensor play in the 1996 Honda Civic's operation?

- The engine coolant temperature sensor monitors the coolant temperature and provides data to the engine control module to adjust fuel mixture and ignition timing for optimal performance.

10. Can a malfunctioning ECT sensor affect the automatic transmission in a 1996 Honda Civic?

- Yes, a faulty ECT sensor can impact the transmission's shifting patterns and overall performance by providing inaccurate temperature readings to the vehicle's computer system.