AutoCodes – Toyota – P0117 2005 Toyota Prius

P0117 2005 Toyota Prius 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 2005 Toyota Prius 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 6,730

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 2005 Toyota Prius 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 2005 Toyota Prius - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input - AutoCodes.com — P0117 2005 Toyota Prius Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0117 2005 Toyota Prius?

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 2005 Toyota Prius?

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

If there are no coolant leaks, replace the thermostat first, if problem is still there check/replace coolant temperature sensor.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0117 2005 Toyota Prius 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 2005 Toyota Prius 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 2005 Toyota Prius Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P0117 on a 2005 Toyota Prius?

- Common symptoms include a drop in fuel efficiency, engine overheating, rough idling, and the temperature gauge not functioning properly.

2. What does the OBDII code P0117 "Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input" mean for a 2005 Toyota Prius?

- This code indicates that the engine coolant temperature sensor is detecting a lower than expected voltage signal, suggesting a potential issue with the sensor or the circuit.

3. What are possible causes of OBDII code P0117 on a 2005 Toyota Prius?

- Possible causes include a faulty coolant temperature sensor, a problem with the sensor's wiring or connector, low coolant levels, or issues with the engine control module.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0117 on my 2005 Toyota Prius?

- To diagnose this code, you can use an OBDII scanner to read the code, visually inspect the coolant sensor and wiring for any damage, and test the sensor's resistance and voltage output.

5. What are the potential dangers of ignoring OBDII code P0117 on a 2005 Toyota Prius?

- Ignoring this code can lead to engine overheating, which may cause severe damage to the engine components and result in costly repairs.

6. Can I drive my 2005 Toyota Prius with OBDII code P0117?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with this code present, as it can lead to potential engine overheating and other issues that may compromise the vehicle's performance and safety.

7. How can I repair OBDII code P0117 on a 2005 Toyota Prius?

- Repairing this code may involve replacing the coolant temperature sensor, addressing any wiring issues, ensuring proper coolant levels, and clearing the code with an OBDII scanner.

8. Is it possible to reset OBDII code P0117 on a 2005 Toyota Prius without fixing the underlying issue?

- While you can clear the code using an OBDII scanner, it is important to address the root cause of the problem to prevent it from recurring and potentially causing further damage.

9. How much does it typically cost to fix OBDII code P0117 on a 2005 Toyota Prius?

- The cost of fixing this code can vary depending on the cause of the issue, but it may range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor.

10. Are there any preventive measures to avoid OBDII code P0117 on a 2005 Toyota Prius?

- Regularly checking and maintaining coolant levels, inspecting the coolant temperature sensor for any signs of wear, and addressing any cooling system issues promptly can help prevent this code from occurring.