AutoCodes – Toyota – P0117 2018 Toyota RAV4

P0117 2018 Toyota RAV4 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input

Quick Answer

The engine coolant temperature sensor is used to monitor the engine coolant temperature. Common causes include Low engine coolant level, Faulty Engine Coolant 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 2018 Toyota RAV4 indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input.
Common causes: Common causes include Low engine coolant level, Faulty Engine Coolant 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.

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Code Popularity 369

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 Aug 23, 2022

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0117 2018 Toyota RAV4 Description

The engine coolant temperature sensor is used to monitor the engine coolant temperature. The engine coolant temperature sensor has a thermistor with a resistance that varies according to the temperature of the engine coolant. When the coolant temperature is low, the resistance in the thermistor increases. When the temperature is high, the resistance drops. These variations in resistance are reflected in the output voltage from the sensor. The Engine Control Module (ECM) monitors the sensor voltage and uses this value to calculate the engine coolant temperature. When the sensor output voltage deviates from the normal operating range, the ECM interprets this as a fault in the engine coolant temperature sensor circuit and stores a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC).

OBDII Code P0117 2018 Toyota RAV4 - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input - AutoCodes.com — P0117 2018 Toyota RAV4 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0117 2018 Toyota RAV4?

Low engine coolant level
Faulty Engine Coolant Thermostat
Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor
Engine Coolant Temperature sensor harness is open or shorted
Engine Coolant Temperature sensor circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Engine Control Module (ECM)

How to Fix the DTC P0117 2018 Toyota RAV4?

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

Start by checking the engine coolant level at the coolant reservoir, a low level may indicate a coolant leak. If the coolant level is correct, you should replace the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor to fix the problem. The Engine Coolant Thermostat must be replaced every time there is a repair with the coolant system.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0117 2018 Toyota RAV4 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 2018 Toyota RAV4 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 2018 Toyota RAV4 Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P0117 in a 2018 Toyota RAV4?

The common symptoms of code P0117 include inaccurate temperature gauge readings, engine overheating, poor fuel economy, and potential rough idling or stalling.

2. What does the OBDII code P0117 in a 2018 Toyota RAV4 indicate?

Code P0117 indicates that the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor is reporting a low input signal to the engine control module.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0117 in a 2018 Toyota RAV4?

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

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0117 in my 2018 Toyota RAV4?

To diagnose code P0117, you can use a scan tool to check for the code, test the ECT sensor's resistance, inspect the wiring and connectors for damage, and verify the coolant level in the system.

5. Can I drive my 2018 Toyota RAV4 with OBDII code P0117?

It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with code P0117, as it can lead to potential engine damage due to inaccurate temperature readings and improper fuel delivery.

6. How do I repair OBDII code P0117 in my 2018 Toyota RAV4?

To repair code P0117, you may need to replace the faulty ECT sensor, repair any damaged wiring or connectors, ensure proper coolant levels, and reset the trouble code with a scan tool.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0117 in a 2018 Toyota RAV4?

While some aspects of diagnosing and repairing code P0117 can be done by a DIY enthusiast, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for accurate diagnosis and proper repair.

8. Will resetting the trouble code fix OBDII code P0117 in my 2018 Toyota RAV4?

Resetting the trouble code may temporarily clear the warning light, but it will not fix the underlying issue causing code P0117. Proper diagnosis and repair are necessary.

9. How serious is OBDII code P0117 in a 2018 Toyota RAV4?

Code P0117 should be addressed promptly to prevent potential engine damage and ensure proper engine performance, fuel economy, and emissions control.

10. Is OBDII code P0117 a common issue in 2018 Toyota RAV4 vehicles?

While code P0117 can occur in any vehicle, it is not a common issue specific to 2018 Toyota RAV4 models. Proper maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent this code from appearing.