P111E Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Not Plausible
Quick Answer
The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor is a variable resistor that measures the temperature of the engine coolant. Common causes include Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor, Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection. 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
- P111E indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Not Plausible.
- Common causes
- Common causes include Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor, Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted, Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection.
- 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.
Code P111E Description
The purpose of this diagnostic is to determine if the input from the ECT sensor is skewed warmer or colder than the Intake Air Temperature (IAT) sensor and Radiator Coolant Temperature (RCT) sensor. The internal clock of the ECM will record the amount of time the engine is OFF. If the required engine OFF time is met at start-up, the ECM will compare temperatures between the ECT, IAT, and RCT sensors.
If the ECM detects that the temperature difference between the ECT, IAT, and RCT sensors is not within an acceptable operating range, the ECM will continue to run this diagnostic to determine if a block heater was active during the engine OFF time. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set if the ECM detects that there is a temperature difference between the start-up Engine Coolant Temperature sensor, Intake Air Temperature sensor, and the Radiator Coolant Temperature (RCT) sensor.
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P111E?
- 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 P111E?
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 P111E 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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Information for Specific Makes
- P111E BMW — Intake Air Temperature Sensor Plausibility
- P111E Buick — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Not Plausible
- P111E Cadillac — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Not Plausible
- P111E Chevrolet — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Not Plausible
- P111E GMC — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Not Plausible
- P111E MINI — Intake Air Temperature Sensor Plausibility
Frequently Asked Questions about P111E Code
1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P111E (Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Not Plausible)?
- Common symptoms include inaccurate temperature readings on the dashboard, engine overheating or running too cold, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential engine misfires.
2. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P111E?
- The code P111E can be triggered by a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor, wiring issues, a malfunctioning thermostat, low coolant levels, or a problem with the engine control module (ECM).
3. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P111E?
- To diagnose the issue, you can use a diagnostic scan tool to read the code and check the live data from the engine coolant temperature sensor. You may also visually inspect the sensor and its wiring for any visible damage.
4. Can I continue driving with OBDII code P111E active?
- It is not recommended to drive with the code active, as it can lead to potential engine damage due to incorrect temperature readings and improper fuel delivery. It is best to address the issue promptly.
5. How can I repair OBDII code P111E?
- The repair process typically involves replacing the faulty engine coolant temperature sensor, fixing any wiring issues, ensuring proper coolant levels, and addressing any problems with the thermostat or ECM as needed.
6. Will resetting the OBDII code P111E make it go away permanently?
- Resetting the code may temporarily clear it, but if the underlying issue causing the code is not addressed, it is likely to reappear. It is important to diagnose and repair the root cause of the problem.
7. Is it possible to drive the vehicle to a repair shop with OBDII code P111E active?
- If the vehicle is exhibiting severe symptoms like overheating or misfires, it is best to have it towed to a repair shop to prevent further damage. Otherwise, driving with caution for a short distance may be possible.
8. Are there any preventive measures to avoid OBDII code P111E in the future?
- Regular maintenance of the cooling system, including checking coolant levels, replacing the thermostat as recommended, and inspecting the engine coolant temperature sensor during routine service, can help prevent this code from recurring.
9. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P111E at home?
- Depending on the individual's skill level and access to tools, replacing the engine coolant temperature sensor or addressing wiring issues can be done at home. However, more complex issues may require professional diagnosis and repair.
10. How long does it typically take to resolve OBDII code P111E at a repair shop?
- The time taken to resolve the code can vary based on the specific cause of the issue, availability of parts, and the shop's workload. Simple sensor replacements may take a few hours, while more complex diagnoses can take longer.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P111E OBDII Code
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Great explanation what it is….horrible about what the code really means or how to fix.
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