Usually, the location of the coolant temperature sensor will be located directly behind the coolant pipe. In most modern cars and vehicles, this is present behind the right cylinder head that is located right underneath of the air intake pipe.

How do you change a water temperature sensor?

Let’s Get Started

  1. Release the Cooling System Pressure. Locate and slowly remove the cooling system pressure cap to relieve the system of any residual pressure.
  2. Locate the Coolant Sensor.
  3. Remove the Electrical Connector.
  4. Remove the Coolant Sensor.
  5. Install the New Coolant Temperature Sensor.
  6. Refill the Cooling System.

How do I know if my water temperature sensor is bad?

Symptoms of a Bad Coolant Temperature Sensor If your vehicle starts to use a lot more gasoline than usual, or black smoke is starting to come from the exhaust pipe, these are indicators that the coolant temperature sensor in your vehicle could be defective, and needs to be replaced.

What happens when coolant temperature sensor goes bad?

If the coolant temperature sensor goes bad it can send a false signal to the computer and throw off the fuel and timing calculations. It is not uncommon for the coolant temperature sensor to fail and send a permanently cold signal to the computer. This will reduce fuel economy, and may hinder engine performance.

Can I drive my car with a bad coolant temperature sensor?

It is possible to drive a vehicle with a faulty coolant temperature sensor as the management system defaults to a static reading. A vehicles coolant sensor is a critical component used by the engine management system. It directly effects, cooling and fueling of the engine and therefore effects how the engine performs.

Does the coolant temp sensor control the fan?

The sensor works by measuring the temperature that’s being given off by the thermostat and/or the coolant itself. The temperature is then sent to the on-board control system. As the control system receives the temperature from the CTS, it may trigger the cooling fan to either shut off or turn on.

Can you drive with a bad temperature sensor?

How long does it take to change a thermostat sensor?

The actual process of replacing the coolant temperature sensor is extremely simple. However, the difficult work comes in the preparation of the cooling system – both before and after. Tip: This job should only be completed when the engine is cold and has not been running for a minimum of one hour.

Can you drive with a faulty coolant temperature sensor?

What causes a coolant temperature sensor to fail?

The engine may run in fail-safe mode: Many Check Engine light codes related to the (ECT) sensor; could also be caused by other reasons. Such as a bad thermostat or issues with the cooling system; including even a leaking head gasket.

Where is the coolant temperature sensor located on a car?

The first item that needs to be completed after you compiled all of your tools and assets is to locate the coolant temperature sensor. In the image above, you can see that most coolant temperature sensors are located on the top, driver side of the engine. However, the location of this sensor may be different with your specific engine.

How can I replace the temp sensor on my car?

The easy way to get at it, is to take out the plastic clips across the front of the car above the grill, wedge a bit of wood under the lip, to keep it up, and you can just get your hand to to replace it. From memory the unit wasn’t very pricey. Regards Evan Thanks- I will maybe try that if this sensor doesn’t fix the problem. Thanks Evanwr.

What to do when your coolant sensor is replaced?

Properly dispose of used coolant. Step 16: Lower vehicle from jack stands. Place the vehicle back level to the ground. Once the coolant temperature sensor has been replaced, you need to start the engine, check for leaks, and refill the radiator fluid in most cases before you test drive the vehicle.