AutoCodes – Toyota – P0117 2008 Toyota Prius

P0117 2008 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 2008 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 8,434

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 2008 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 2008 Toyota Prius - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input - AutoCodes.com — P0117 2008 Toyota Prius Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0117 2008 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 2008 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 2008 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 2008 Toyota Prius code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0117 2008 Toyota Prius code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the 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 2008 Toyota Prius Code

1. What does OBDII code P0117 mean for a 2008 Toyota Prius?

The code P0117 for a 2008 Toyota Prius indicates a low input in the engine coolant temperature circuit.

2. What are some common symptoms of OBDII code P0117 in a 2008 Toyota Prius?

Common symptoms of code P0117 in a 2008 Toyota Prius may include poor fuel economy, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine.

3. What can cause the OBDII code P0117 to trigger in a 2008 Toyota Prius?

The code P0117 in a 2008 Toyota Prius can be triggered by issues such as a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor, wiring problems, or a malfunctioning thermostat.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0117 in my 2008 Toyota Prius?

To diagnose code P0117 in a 2008 Toyota Prius, you can use a scan tool to read the code, check the engine coolant temperature sensor, inspect the wiring for any damage, and test the thermostat.

5. What are some potential repair tips for fixing OBDII code P0117 in a 2008 Toyota Prius?

Repair tips for addressing code P0117 in a 2008 Toyota Prius may include replacing the engine coolant temperature sensor, repairing any damaged wiring, or replacing a faulty thermostat.

6. Can OBDII code P0117 in a 2008 Toyota Prius cause damage to the engine?

While code P0117 itself may not directly cause engine damage, it is important to address the underlying issue promptly to prevent potential overheating or other complications.

7. Is it safe to continue driving a 2008 Toyota Prius with the OBDII code P0117 present?

It is not recommended to drive a 2008 Toyota Prius with code P0117 present, as it can lead to engine performance issues and potential overheating problems.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0117 in a 2008 Toyota Prius?

The cost to repair code P0117 in a 2008 Toyota Prius can vary depending on the underlying issue, but it may range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor.

9. Can I reset the OBDII code P0117 in my 2008 Toyota Prius using a scan tool?

Yes, you can use a scan tool to reset code P0117 in a 2008 Toyota Prius after addressing the underlying issue causing the fault.

10. Will fixing OBDII code P0117 in my 2008 Toyota Prius improve fuel efficiency?

Yes, resolving code P0117 in a 2008 Toyota Prius can help improve fuel efficiency by ensuring proper engine coolant temperature readings and optimal engine performance.