AutoCodesPontiac – P1115 Pontiac

P1115 Pontiac Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent High Voltage

Quick Answer

The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor contains a semiconductor device which changes resistance based on temperature (a thermistor). Common causes include Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor, Low engine coolant level, Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor harness is open or shorted. 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
P1115 Pontiac indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent High Voltage.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor, Low engine coolant level, Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor harness is open or shorted.
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 5,481
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Apr 21, 2019
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Code P1115 Pontiac Description

The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor contains a semiconductor device which changes resistance based on temperature (a thermistor). The ECT sensor mounts in the left bank cylinder head near the front of the engine. The ECT sensor has a signal circuit and a ground circuit. The PCM applies a voltage (about 5.0 volts) on the signal circuit to the sensor. The PCM monitors changes in this voltage caused by changes in the resistance of the sensor in order to determine the engine coolant temperature.
When the engine coolant is cold, the sensor (thermistor) resistance is high, and the PCMs signal voltage is only pulled down a small amount through the sensor to ground. The PCM senses a high signal voltage (low temperature). When the engine coolant is warm, the sensor resistance is low, and the signal voltage is pulled down a greater amount. This causes the PCM to sense a low signal voltage (high temperature).
OBDII Code P1115 Pontiac - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent High Voltage - AutoCodes.com
P1115 Pontiac Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent High Voltage

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1115 Pontiac?

  • Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor
  • Low engine coolant level
  • Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor electrical circuit poor connection
  • Faulty engine coolant thermostat

How to Fix the DTC P1115 Pontiac?

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 P1115 Pontiac 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 P1115 Pontiac Code

What does the OBDII code P1115 mean on a Pontiac vehicle?

1. P1115 indicates an intermittent high voltage issue in the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor circuit, which monitors the engine's coolant temperature. 2.

What are the common symptoms of the P1115 code in a Pontiac?

Symptoms may include poor engine performance, difficulty starting the engine, erratic temperature gauge readings, increased fuel consumption, and the check engine light illuminating. 3.

What causes a P1115 code to appear on a Pontiac?

Common causes include a faulty ECT sensor, damaged or corroded wiring or connectors, a short or open in the ECT sensor circuit, or a malfunctioning powertrain control module (PCM). 4.

How do I diagnose the P1115 code on my Pontiac?

Start by using a scan tool to verify the code, inspect the ECT sensor and its wiring for damage or corrosion, and check for proper voltage and resistance using a multimeter. 5.

Can I drive my Pontiac with a P1115 code?

Driving with the P1115 code is not recommended, as it can cause poor engine performance, overheating, or potential engine damage if the coolant temperature isn't monitored correctly. 6.

How do I fix a P1115 code on a Pontiac?

Repairs may involve replacing the ECT sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, clearing corrosion, or in rare cases, replacing the PCM. 7.

How much does it cost to repair a P1115 code on a Pontiac?

Repair costs can vary but typically range from $50 to $200 for parts and labor, depending on whether the ECT sensor or wiring needs replacement. 8.

Can a dirty or low coolant level cause a P1115 code?

Low or dirty coolant usually doesn't cause this code directly but can lead to inaccurate temperature readings, which might contribute to sensor-related issues over time. 9.

How do I prevent the P1115 code from recurring?

Regularly inspect and maintain the cooling system, replace the ECT sensor if it shows signs of wear, and ensure wiring and connectors are clean and secure. 10.

Will replacing the thermostat fix the P1115 code on a Pontiac?

Replacing the thermostat may not directly resolve the P1115 code unless it’s contributing to irregular temperature readings; focus on the ECT sensor and circuit first.

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