Coolant Temperature Sensor

The Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor (CTS or ECT) uses electrical resistance to measure the temperature of the coolant/antifreeze mixture in the cooling system. This gives an indication of how much heat the engine is giving off. The vehicle’s computer will use this information to adjust certain engine functions to keep engine temperature at an ideal level. It may turn the cooling fan off or on, open the exhaust gas recirculation or communicate the need for a richer fuel mixture.

Common causes of Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor failure include:

• Faulty wiring
• Loose or corroded connectors

Symptoms of a failing Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor may include:

• Reduced fuel efficiency
• Poor start
• Black smoke coming from the vehicle’s exhaust
• Overheating engine
• Poor idle (necessary to pump the gas pedal to keep the vehicle running)
• Check the Engine Light on

Each Coolant Temperature Sensor is environmentally and 100% functional tested to ensure optimum performance and durability out of the box.