AutoCodes – Toyota – P0117 2003 Toyota Highlander

P0117 2003 Toyota Highlander Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input

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 2003 Toyota Highlander indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input.
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 6,056

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
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0117 2003 Toyota Highlander 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 2003 Toyota Highlander - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input - AutoCodes.com — P0117 2003 Toyota Highlander Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0117 2003 Toyota Highlander?

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 2003 Toyota Highlander?

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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0117 2003 Toyota Highlander 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 2003 Toyota Highlander code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0117 2003 Toyota Highlander code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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 2003 Toyota Highlander Code

1. What does OBDII code P0117 on a 2003 Toyota Highlander mean?

The code P0117 indicates an issue with the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor circuit, specifically a low input signal.

2. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0117 on a 2003 Toyota Highlander?

Common symptoms include poor fuel economy, rough idling, engine overheating, and the Check Engine light being illuminated.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0117 on a 2003 Toyota Highlander?

The possible causes of P0117 include a faulty ECT sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the ECT circuit, low coolant level, or a malfunctioning engine control module (ECM).

4. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P0117 on a 2003 Toyota Highlander?

You can diagnose P0117 by checking the ECT sensor for proper resistance, inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, verifying the coolant level, and using a scan tool to monitor ECT sensor data.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P0117 on a 2003 Toyota Highlander?

Repair options include replacing the ECT sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, ensuring the coolant level is correct, and resetting the ECM after making necessary repairs.

6. Can driving with OBDII code P0117 on a 2003 Toyota Highlander cause further damage?

Continuing to drive with P0117 may lead to poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential engine overheating, which can cause severe damage if left unresolved.

7. Will resetting the Check Engine light resolve OBDII code P0117 on a 2003 Toyota Highlander?

Simply resetting the Check Engine light will not fix the underlying issue causing P0117. It is important to diagnose and address the root cause of the problem to prevent further issues.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0117 on a 2003 Toyota Highlander?

The cost of repairing P0117 can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue, but it may range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor.

9. Can I continue driving my 2003 Toyota Highlander with OBDII code P0117?

It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with unresolved P0117, as it can lead to engine performance issues and potential damage. It is best to address the problem promptly.

10. Is OBDII code P0117 a common issue in 2003 Toyota Highlanders?

While not extremely common, P0117 can occur in 2003 Toyota Highlanders due to sensor failures, wiring issues, or other related problems. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can help prevent such issues.