AutoCodes – Cadillac – P1117 Cadillac

P1117 Cadillac Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Signal Out-Of-Range Low

Quick Answer

The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor contains a semiconductor device which changes resistance based on temperature (a thermistor). 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 Cadillac indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Signal Out-Of-Range Low.
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 3,615

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 Cadillac 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 Powertrain Control Module (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 P1117 Cadillac - Engine Coolant Temperature Signal Out-Of-Range Low - AutoCodes.com — P1117 Cadillac Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Signal Out-Of-Range Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1117 Cadillac?

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

How to Fix the DTC P1117 Cadillac?

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 Cadillac 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 P1117 Cadillac Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1117 in a Cadillac?

- Common symptoms include engine overheating, poor fuel economy, rough idling, and the Check Engine light illuminating.

2. What are the possible causes of the P1117 engine coolant temperature signal out-of-range low code in a Cadillac?

- Possible causes include a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor, a defective thermostat, a coolant leak, or wiring issues.

3. How can I diagnose the P1117 trouble code in my Cadillac?

- To diagnose the issue, you can use an OBDII scanner to read the code, inspect the engine coolant temperature sensor and its wiring, check the coolant level, and test the thermostat.

4. Can I continue driving my Cadillac with the P1117 trouble code present?

- It is not recommended to drive your Cadillac with the P1117 code as it can lead to engine damage due to overheating.

5. How can I repair the P1117 code in my Cadillac?

- Repairing the P1117 code typically involves replacing the faulty engine coolant temperature sensor, fixing any coolant leaks, testing and possibly replacing the thermostat, and clearing the code using an OBDII scanner.

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

- Resetting the trouble code may clear the Check Engine light temporarily, but if the underlying issue causing the P1117 code is not fixed, the code is likely to return.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the P1117 code issue in a Cadillac?

- Depending on the DIY skills and experience, a DIY enthusiast may be able to fix the P1117 code by following repair guides and utilizing the necessary tools.

8. How important is it to address the P1117 trouble code promptly?

- Addressing the P1117 trouble code promptly is crucial to prevent potential engine damage and ensure the proper functioning of your Cadillac's cooling system.

9. Is it possible for a loose gas cap to trigger the P1117 code in a Cadillac?

- No, a loose gas cap is not related to the P1117 code as it is specifically related to the engine coolant temperature signal being out-of-range low.

10. Can extreme weather conditions contribute to triggering the P1117 code?

- Extreme weather conditions can indirectly contribute to triggering the P1117 code by putting additional strain on the cooling system, potentially exacerbating existing issues causing the code.