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AutoCodes – Toyota – P0117 Toyota

P0117 Toyota 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 Toyota 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 74,569
How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium
What is this?
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 23, 2022
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Code P0117 Toyota 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 Toyota - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input - AutoCodes.com
P0117 Toyota Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input
What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0117 Toyota?

  • 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 Toyota?

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.









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What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0117 Toyota 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 Toyota code?

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

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Information for Specific Toyota Models

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 Toyota Code

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

- Common symptoms include the engine running hotter or colder than usual, poor fuel economy, and the temperature gauge showing incorrect readings.

2. What causes the OBDII code P0117 in a Toyota?

- The code P0117 is typically triggered by a faulty engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor, a wiring issue in the ECT circuit, or a problem with the ECT sensor's connector.

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

- To diagnose the code P0117, you can use a scan tool to check the ECT sensor's readings, inspect the wiring and connector for any damage, and perform a resistance test on the ECT sensor.

4. Can a bad thermostat cause the OBDII code P0117 in a Toyota?

- Yes, a malfunctioning thermostat that is stuck open can cause the engine coolant temperature to stay low, potentially triggering the OBDII code P0117.

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

- Repair tips include replacing the faulty ECT sensor, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, ensuring the thermostat is functioning correctly, and clearing the trouble codes with a scan tool.

6. Is it safe to continue driving with the OBDII code P0117 in my Toyota?

- It is generally not recommended to drive with the code P0117 present, as it can lead to potential engine overheating issues and other complications.

7. Can a low coolant level trigger the OBDII code P0117 in a Toyota?

- Yes, a low coolant level can affect the ECT sensor readings and potentially trigger the code P0117. It's important to check and maintain the proper coolant level in the vehicle.

8. How long does it typically take to repair the OBDII code P0117 in a Toyota?

- The repair time for the code P0117 can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it can usually be resolved within a few hours by a qualified mechanic.

9. Will disconnecting the battery reset the OBDII code P0117 in a Toyota?

- Disconnecting the battery may temporarily clear the trouble code, but it is recommended to diagnose and repair the underlying issue causing the code to prevent it from reoccurring.

10. Can a dirty or corroded ECT sensor connector cause the OBDII code P0117 in a Toyota?

- Yes, a dirty or corroded ECT sensor connector can disrupt the signal between the sensor and the engine control module, leading to the code P0117. Cleaning or repairing the connector may resolve the issue.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0117 Toyota OBDII Code

Submit a New Comment

  • My 2004 Toyota Camry VVT-i 16 valve 2.4L engine is showing engine codes P0117 and P0442. I check the thermostat, flush and bleed the coolant and replaced the engine coolant sensor but the codes remain. Any suggestion?

    Reply to Comment

  • Besides the sensor, other thigns that can cause the P0117 code is the ECM and short to ground wire from the sensor to the ECM.

    P0442 is not related to the P0117 code, that code could be just a loose gas cap.

    P0442 TOYOTA - EVAP System Small Leak Detected
    Read more: https://www.autocodes.com/p...

    Reply to Comment

  • p0117 can cause the heating problem? bcoz i have this error but heater is not working.

    Reply to Comment

  • No. Start by checking the coolant system for leak. Sounds like the coolant level is too low or there is air in the system.

    Reply to Comment
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