AutoCodesChevrolet – P111E 2018 Chevrolet Silverado

P111E 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 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 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 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.
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Code Popularity 510
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 30, 2022
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Code P111E 2018 Chevrolet Silverado Description

The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor is a variable resistor that measures the temperature of the engine coolant. The Engine Control Module (ECM) supplies 5V to the ECT sensor signal circuit and a ground for the low reference circuit.
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.
OBDII Code P111E 2018 Chevrolet Silverado - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Not Plausible - AutoCodes.com
P111E 2018 Chevrolet Silverado Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Not Plausible

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P111E 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

  • 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 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

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 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 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 P111E 2018 Chevrolet Silverado code?

Need more information on how to fix the P111E 2018 Chevrolet Silverado code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

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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 P111E 2018 Chevrolet Silverado Code

1. What does the OBDII code P111E mean in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

The code P111E indicates that the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor is reporting values that are not plausible or consistent with expected operating parameters.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P111E in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

Symptoms may include an illuminated check engine light, erratic temperature gauge readings, poor engine performance, or issues with heating or cooling systems.

3. What causes the P111E code to appear in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

Common causes include a faulty ECT sensor, wiring or connector issues, a stuck thermostat, or a problem with the engine control module (ECM).

4. Can a bad thermostat trigger the P111E code in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

Yes, a malfunctioning thermostat that doesn’t regulate coolant temperature properly can cause the ECT sensor to send implausible readings, triggering the code.

5. How do you diagnose the P111E code on a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

Diagnosis typically involves checking the ECT sensor, inspecting the wiring and connectors for damage, testing the thermostat, and scanning the ECM for additional codes.

6. Can I drive my 2018 Chevrolet Silverado with the P111E code?

While the vehicle may still be drivable, it’s not recommended as it could lead to engine overheating or other damage if the coolant temperature is not properly regulated.

7. How do you fix the P111E code on a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

Repairs may include replacing the ECT sensor, fixing damaged wiring, installing a new thermostat, or reprogramming/repairing the ECM if necessary.

8. How much does it cost to fix the P111E code in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

The cost varies depending on the issue but typically ranges from $150 to $400 for parts and labor, with the ECT sensor or thermostat replacement being the most common fixes.

9. Can a software update resolve the P111E code in a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

In some cases, a software update for the ECM may resolve the issue if it’s related to incorrect calibration or programming.

10. How can I prevent the P111E code from occurring again in my 2018 Chevrolet Silverado?

Regular maintenance, such as inspecting the cooling system, replacing the thermostat as recommended, and ensuring wiring and sensors are in good condition, can help prevent this code.

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