P0118 OBD-II Trouble Code: Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor Circuit High Open Problem

P0118 code definition

Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor circuit high open problem

What the P0118 code means

P0118 is the OBD-II generic code that indicates the Engine Control Module (ECM) has seen the ECT sensor output go more than 4.91 V or less than -40°C (-40°F).

What causes the P0118 code?

The ECT sensor range input to the ECM went to 4.91 or less than -40 deg F indicating an open circuit in the sensor, connector or wiring.

What are the symptoms of the P0118 code?

• The ECM turns the Check Engine Light on and goes into failsafe mode, substituting input to 176 deg F.

• The engine may have a hard start when engine is cold, and start normal when warm.

• The engine may run rough and hesitate until the engine warms up.

• The engine should run close to normal once the engine warms up.

Note: The symptoms are determined by the manufacturer failsafe ECM strategy for the vehicle during a failure and may vary between manufacturers and vehicles.

How does a mechanic diagnose the P0118 code?

• Inspects for disconnected sensor connectors or damaged connectors

• Scans and documents the codes received and views the freeze frame data to see when the code was set

• Clears the OBD-II fault codes and retests the system to see if the code comes back

• Disconnects the sensor connector and inspects for corrosion or bent pins and repairs as needed.

• Connects the two connector pins together to see if the output on scanner shows above 284 deg F, indicating the wiring is okay, and replaces the ECT sensor

• Above 284 deg F, the circuit has an open circuit in the wiring, connector or ECM and will be fixed by the technician

Common mistakes when diagnosing the P0118 code

• Not visually inspecting the problem area first

• Not following the manufacturer's pinpoint test procedure step-by-step, and skipping steps

• Replacing the ECT sensor without knowing for sure that it is the problem

• Not connecting it and viewing the ECM data to see if the temperature output from the sensor is as expected before installation of the new ECT sensor

How serious is the P0118 code?

The P0118 code will put the engine ECM to go into a failsafe mode, which may cause the engine to run rough, or hesitate until the engine warms up to operating temperature. The failsafe mode may also cause excessive fuel consumption, carbon fouling of engine components, and various drive complaints, depending on the manufacturer's failsafe mode strategy. Driving a vehicle for an extended time with the vehicle in failsafe mode may require additional repairs to remove carbon, or repair possible ignition problems. Also, electrical cooling fans may run continuously while the engine is running.

What repairs can fix the P0118 code?

• Repairing or replacing the ECT connector
• Repairing or replacing the wiring open circuit as necessary
• Replacing the ECT with a new sensor

Additional comments for consideration regarding the P0118 code

Most failures for code P0118 involve ECT sensor open circuit failure.

Need help with a P0118 code?

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