Circuit Description

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Isuzu i-370, 2007 GMC Canyon, and 2007 Chevrolet Colorado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor is a variable resistor that measures the temperature of the engine coolant. The powertrain control module (PCM) supplies 5 volts to the signal circuit and a ground for the ECT low reference circuit. When the engine coolant temperature is low, the sensor resistance is high. When the engine coolant temperature is high, the sensor resistance is low. The PCM uses this High Side Coolant Rationality test to determine if the ECT input is skewed high. The internal clock of the PCM will record the amount of time the ignition is OFF. At restart the PCM will compare the temperature difference between the ECT and the intake air temperature (IAT). If the PCM detects that the temperature difference between the ECT and the IAT is not within the calibrated range after the ignition OFF time, DTC P0116 sets.