P0117 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input
Quick Answer
The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor is a variable resistor that measures the temperature of the engine coolant. Common causes include Low engine coolant level, Leaking or stuck open 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
- P0117 2016 Chevrolet Silverado indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Low engine coolant level, Leaking or stuck open 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.
Code P0117 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Description
The ECM uses this high side coolant rationality diagnostic to determine if the input from the ECT sensor is skewed warmer than normal. The internal clock of the ECM will record the amount of time the ignition is OFF. If the calibrated ignition OFF time is met at start-up, the ECM will compare the temperature difference between the ECT and the intake air temperature (IAT) to determine if the temperatures are within an acceptable operating range of each other. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set when the ECM detects a the ECT is warmer than 139°C (282°F) for greater than 5 s.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0117 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
- Low engine coolant level
- Leaking or stuck open thermostat
- Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor
- Engine Coolant Temperature sensor harness is open or shorted
- Engine Coolant Temperature sensor electrical circuit poor connection
- Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)
How to Fix the DTC P0117 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
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 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 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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Frequently Asked Questions about P0117 2016 Chevrolet Silverado Code
1. What does the OBDII code P0117 mean on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
P0117 indicates that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected a low voltage signal from the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor, suggesting an unusually low temperature reading.
2. What are the symptoms of code P0117 on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
Common symptoms include poor fuel efficiency, rough idle, difficulty starting the engine, engine overheating, or the dashboard temperature gauge showing incorrect readings.
3. What causes code P0117 to appear on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
Possible causes include a faulty ECT sensor, damaged or corroded wiring, a disconnected sensor connector, or a malfunctioning ECM.
4. Can I drive my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado with code P0117?
Driving with this code is not recommended, as it can lead to engine overheating, poor performance, and potential long-term engine damage.
5. How do I fix the P0117 code on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
Repairs may involve replacing the ECT sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning sensor connections, or, in rare cases, replacing the ECM.
6. How do I diagnose code P0117 on my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
Start by checking the ECT sensor for damage or loose connections, test the sensor's resistance, inspect the wiring and connectors for corrosion or damage, and verify the ECM is functioning properly.
7. Where is the Engine Coolant Temperature sensor located on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
The ECT sensor is typically located near the thermostat housing, on the engine block or cylinder head.
8. Can a bad thermostat cause code P0117 on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
While a bad thermostat is not a direct cause, it may affect coolant temperature readings, so it’s worth inspecting if other components check out.
9. How much does it cost to fix code P0117 on a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
Repair costs can range from $50 to $250 depending on whether the issue is a faulty sensor, damaged wiring, or another component requiring replacement.
10. Will clearing the P0117 code solve the problem on my 2016 Chevrolet Silverado?
Simply clearing the code will not fix the underlying issue. Proper diagnosis and repair are necessary to prevent the code from returning.
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