Circuit/System Description
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Saturn Vue. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The engine control module (ECM) uses the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor to monitor the engine for an over-termperature condition. This condition occurs when the coolant temperature is above a calibrated value for a calibrated length of time. The ECM will disable half of the cylinders by turning OFF the fuel injectors. By disabling half of cylinders, the ECM is able to reduce the temperature of the coolant.