AutoCodesToyota – P0118 Toyota

P0118 Toyota Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit High 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
P0118 Toyota indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit High 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 53,426
How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 23, 2022
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Code P0118 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 P0118 Toyota - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit High Input - AutoCodes.com
P0118 Toyota Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit High Input

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0118 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 P0118 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.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0118 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 P0118 Toyota code?

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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 P0118 Toyota Code

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

Symptoms may include engine overheating, a decrease in fuel economy, difficulty starting the engine, and the Check Engine light illuminating on the dashboard.

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

The most common cause is a faulty engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor, a corroded or damaged ECT sensor connector, low coolant levels, or a problem with the ECT sensor circuit.

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

You can diagnose the issue by checking the coolant level, inspecting the ECT sensor and its wiring for damage, using a multimeter to test the sensor's resistance, and scanning the vehicle for any additional trouble codes.

4. Can I drive my Toyota with the OBDII code P0118?

It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with this code as it may lead to engine overheating and other potentially serious issues. It's best to address the problem promptly.

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

Repair options include replacing the ECT sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, ensuring proper coolant levels, and clearing the trouble code with an OBDII scanner.

6. Can a dirty or clogged cooling system cause the OBDII code P0118 in a Toyota?

Yes, a dirty or clogged cooling system can impact the accuracy of the ECT sensor readings, potentially triggering the P0118 trouble code.

7. Is it safe to reset the Check Engine light after repairing the OBDII code P0118 in my Toyota?

Yes, after addressing the underlying issue causing the code, it is safe to reset the Check Engine light using an OBDII scanner to clear the code from the vehicle's computer.

8. Will the OBDII code P0118 cause my Toyota to fail an emissions test?

Yes, the P0118 code can cause your vehicle to fail an emissions test as it indicates a potential issue with the engine coolant temperature sensor, which is essential for proper engine performance.

9. Can extreme weather conditions trigger the OBDII code P0118 in a Toyota?

Extreme cold or hot weather can impact the engine coolant temperature readings, potentially leading to a false high input signal and triggering the P0118 trouble code.

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

The cost of repairing the P0118 code can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0118 Toyota OBDII Code

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