AutoCodes – Generic – P1117

P1117 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Intermittent

Quick Answer

The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor is a thermistor device in which resistance changes with temperature. Common causes include Low Engine Coolant Level, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor, 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: P1117 indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Intermittent.
Common causes: Common causes include Low Engine Coolant Level, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor, 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 32,186

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 Apr 22, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1117 Description

The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor is a thermistor device in which resistance changes with temperature. The electrical resistance of a thermistor decreases as the temperature increases, and the resistance increases as the temperature decreases. The varying resistance changes the voltage drop across the sensor terminals and provides electrical signals to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) corresponding to temperature.
Thermistor-type sensors are considered passive sensors. A passive sensor is connected to a voltage divider network so varying the resistance of the passive sensor causes a variation in total current flow. Voltage that is dropped across a fixed resistor (pull-up resister) in series with the sensor resistor determines the voltage signal at the PCM. This voltage signal is equal to the reference voltage minus the voltage drop across the fixed resistor.
The ECT measures the temperature of the engine coolant. The PCM uses the ECT input for fuel control and for cooling fan control. There are 3 types of ECT sensors; threaded, push-in, and twist-lock. The ECT sensor is located in an engine coolant passage.

OBDII Code P1117 - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Intermittent - AutoCodes.com — P1117 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Intermittent

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1117?

Low Engine Coolant Level
Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor
Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor harness is open or shorted
Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor electrical circuit poor connection
Faulty Engine Coolant Thermostat
Damaged Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

How to Fix the DTC P1117?

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 P1117 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 P1117 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1117 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P1117 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Makes

P1117 Audi — HO2S Sensor Heater Circuit Short To Ground Bank 1 Sensor 2
P1117 BMW — Mass Or Volume Air Flow Circuit Low Input Bank 2
P1117 Buick — Engine Coolant Temperature Signal Out-Of-Range Low
P1117 Cadillac — Engine Coolant Temperature Signal Out-Of-Range Low
P1117 Chevrolet — Engine Coolant Temperature Signal Out-Of-Range Low
P1117 Ford — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Intermittent
P1117 GMC — Engine Coolant Temperature Signal Out-Of-Range Low
P1117 KIA — HO2S Circuit Low Voltage Bank 1 Sensor 2
P1117 Land Rover — Thermostat Monitoring Sensor Short Circuit To Ground
P1117 Lexus — Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Stack for Coolant Heat Storage System
P1117 Lincoln — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Intermittent
P1117 Mazda — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Intermittent
P1117 Mercury — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Intermittent
P1117 MINI — Mass Or Volume Air Flow Circuit Low Input Bank 2
P1117 Scion — Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Stack for Coolant Heat Storage System
P1117 Toyota — Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Stack for Coolant Heat Storage System
P1117 Volkswagen — HO2S Sensor Heater Circuit Short To Ground Bank 1 Sensor 2

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 P1117 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1117 (Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Intermittent)?

- Common symptoms include issues with engine performance, such as rough idling, poor fuel efficiency, and potential overheating.

2. What are the possible causes of an intermittent Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor issue (P1117)?

- Causes can include a faulty temperature sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a loose sensor connection, or a malfunction in the sensor circuit.

3. How can I diagnose the source of an intermittent Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor problem?

- Use a multimeter to test the sensor's resistance, check the wiring and connectors for damage, and ensure the sensor is securely connected.

4. Can a faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor (P1117) cause other problems in the vehicle?

- Yes, a malfunctioning sensor can affect the engine's fuel mixture, ignition timing, and overall performance, leading to additional issues.

5. What are the potential risks of driving with a P1117 code related to the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor?

- Driving with a faulty coolant temperature sensor can lead to engine overheating, increased emissions, poor fuel economy, and potential damage to engine components.

6. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code P1117 (Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Intermittent) without fixing the underlying issue?

- Resetting the code without addressing the root cause will not resolve the problem and the Check Engine Light is likely to reappear once the issue persists.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair or replace a faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor causing the P1117 code?

- The cost can vary depending on the vehicle make and model, but generally, the replacement of the sensor can range from $50 to $200 including parts and labor.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the intermittent Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor issue associated with code P1117?

- Yes, if you have some experience with automotive repairs and the necessary tools, replacing the coolant temperature sensor can be a manageable DIY task.

9. Are there any preventative measures that can help avoid intermittent Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor problems leading to the P1117 code?

- Regularly inspecting the sensor and its connections, maintaining proper coolant levels, and addressing any cooling system issues promptly can help prevent sensor malfunctions.

10. How long can I safely drive with an intermittent Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor issue triggering the P1117 code?

- It's best to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent potential engine damage or decreased performance. Avoid prolonged driving with unresolved sensor problems.