Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor

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The Engine Cooling Temperature (ECT) sensors are Negative Temperature Coefficient (NTC) thermistors that allow the PCM to monitor the engine coolant temperature.

There are two identical ECT sensors installed, which are identified as ECT 1 and ECT 2. Each sensor is secured with a twist-lock and latch mechanism, and is sealed with an O-ring. A two pin electrical connector provides the interface between the sensor and the engine harness.

Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor 1

ECT 1 is installed in the heater manifold, at the rear of the bank 1 cylinder head. The input from this sensor is used in calibration tables and by other systems.

If there is an ECT 1 fault, the PCM adopts an estimated coolant temperature. On the second consecutive trip with an ECT 1 fault, the PCM illuminates the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL).

Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor 2

ECT 2 is installed in the lower hose connector which attaches to the bottom of the thermostat. The input from this sensor is used for On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) 2 diagnostics and, in conjunction with the input from ECT 1, to confirm that the thermostat is functional.

If there is an ECT 2 fault, the PCM illuminates the MIL on the second consecutive trip.