AutoCodes – Hyundai – P0118 Hyundai

P0118 Hyundai Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit High 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
P0118 Hyundai indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit High 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.
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 37,827
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Jun 14, 2020
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Code P0118 Hyundai 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 P0118 Hyundai - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit High Input - AutoCodes.com
P0118 Hyundai Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit High Input

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0118 Hyundai?

  • 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 electrical circuit poor connection

How to Fix the DTC P0118 Hyundai?

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 P0118 Hyundai 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 P0118 Hyundai code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0118 Hyundai 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 P0118 Hyundai Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0118 in a Hyundai?

- Common symptoms include the engine running hot, temperature gauge reading high, poor fuel economy, and potential engine overheating.

2. What causes the OBDII code P0118 in a Hyundai?

- The code P0118 is typically triggered by a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, low coolant level, or a malfunctioning thermostat.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0118 in my Hyundai?

- You can diagnose the code P0118 by checking the coolant level, inspecting the engine coolant temperature sensor and its wiring, and using a multimeter to test for proper voltage and resistance.

4. Can I still drive my Hyundai with the OBDII code P0118 present?

- It is not recommended to drive your Hyundai with the P0118 code active, as it can lead to engine overheating and potential damage. It's best to address the issue promptly.

5. How can I repair the OBDII code P0118 in my Hyundai?

- To repair the code P0118, you may need to replace the engine coolant temperature sensor, repair any damaged wiring or connectors, refill the coolant if low, and ensure the thermostat is functioning correctly.

6. Will resetting the OBDII code P0118 make it go away permanently?

- Simply resetting the code may temporarily clear the check engine light, but if the underlying issue causing P0118 is not resolved, the code is likely to return.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair the OBDII code P0118 in a Hyundai?

- The cost of repairing the code P0118 can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue. Replacing the engine coolant temperature sensor may cost between $50 to $200 including parts and labor.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the OBDII code P0118 in a Hyundai?

- Yes, some DIY enthusiasts with the necessary tools and knowledge can diagnose and repair the code P0118 themselves. However, if unsure, it's best to consult a professional mechanic.

9. What are the long-term effects of ignoring the OBDII code P0118 in a Hyundai?

- Ignoring the code P0118 can lead to engine overheating, potential damage to engine components, decreased fuel efficiency, and eventual engine failure if left unresolved for an extended period.

10. Is the OBDII code P0118 specific to Hyundai vehicles only?

- No, the OBDII code P0118 (Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit High Input) is a generic code that can appear in various vehicle makes and models, not limited to Hyundai vehicles.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0118 Hyundai OBDII Code

  • the two fans keep on working as soon as you turn the key on, even without startin the engine. I have checked the sensor, it is new, the relays are ok, I suspect the computer. If you have any recommendation I will appreciated. But please, soon, I need the car in working order.

  • What model and year is your vehicle? have you check the engine coolant level? any other codes?

  • The coolant level is OK, no other codes. I pulled off the connector from the sensor and the fans still work. How can it be? I guess the computer is "reading" a high resistance from the sensor. Then I think that to take a voltage measure at the connector I will have to disconnect the fans motors....Is that right ?

  • What model and year is your vehicle? I can check the wire diagram to give you a better idea of the circuit.

    Disconnecting the sensor will indicate an open sensor and the computer turns ON the fans all the time as a precaution.

    An open or faulty sensor is the most likely cause of the problem.

  • I checked everything and finally I changed the computer and now is working perfectly. It seems that the ECM was the defective part. Thanks for your help. I will keep in contact.

    I have another issue, it is with the purge system. I changed the valves ( the one between the fire wall and the intake and the one on the canister ) , erased the code PO 144 and run the car for long periods, but as soon as I stop the engine, when I turn ir on again the code comes back. I really dont know what to do, I checked que voltages on the connectors and they seem to be ok, I have to check one more, and then nothing more to do. I know the valves are ok, I tested them using 12 volts direct, and as a matter of fact, they are new. I will do something tomorrow and I will let you know. It is the only thing working wrong with my car. It has 153756 miles. The engine has 120 psi compression in each cylinder, runs very smoothly and the economy is very good. I work makint deliveries to long distances and Ii is making an average of 39 mpl at an average speed of 67 mph.

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