AutoCodes – Subaru – P0117 Subaru

P0117 Subaru 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 Subaru 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 34,163

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 02, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes ▶
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0117 Subaru 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 Subaru - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input - AutoCodes.com — P0117 Subaru Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0117 Subaru?

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 Subaru?

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

User Submitted Video

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0117 Subaru 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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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 Subaru Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0117 in a Subaru?

- Common symptoms include inaccurate temperature readings on the dashboard, engine overheating, poor fuel economy, and potential stalling or rough idling.

2. What typically causes the OBDII code P0117 in a Subaru?

- The code P0117 is usually triggered by a faulty engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor, damaged ECT sensor wiring, or a malfunctioning thermostat.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0117 in my Subaru?

- To diagnose code P0117, you can use an OBDII scanner to read the code and check the ECT sensor's resistance with a multimeter to see if it falls within the specified range.

4. Are there any DIY repair tips for fixing the OBDII code P0117 in a Subaru?

- DIY repair tips include checking and cleaning the ECT sensor connector, inspecting the wiring for any damage, and replacing the ECT sensor if it is faulty.

5. Can a bad thermostat cause the OBDII code P0117 in a Subaru?

- Yes, a malfunctioning thermostat can cause the engine coolant temperature to be lower than expected, triggering the low input circuit code P0117.

6. How serious is the OBDII code P0117 in a Subaru?

- While the code P0117 may not cause immediate harm to your vehicle, it can lead to engine performance issues and potential overheating if left unresolved.

7. Will driving with the OBDII code P0117 damage my Subaru?

- Continuing to drive with the code P0117 may result in poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential long-term damage if the underlying issue is not addressed promptly.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair the OBDII code P0117 in a Subaru?

- The cost of repairing the code P0117 in a Subaru can vary depending on the root cause, but it may range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor.

9. Can I reset the OBDII code P0117 in my Subaru with a simple reset tool?

- Resetting the code P0117 with a diagnostic tool is possible, but it is recommended to diagnose and fix the underlying issue causing the code to prevent it from reoccurring.

10. Is it safe to continue driving my Subaru with the OBDII code P0117 if the engine is not overheating?

- While it may be safe to drive in the short term, it is advisable to address the underlying issue causing the code P0117 to prevent potential engine performance problems in the future.