BMW 545i Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor Replacement at your home or office.

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Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor Replacement Service

How much does a Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor Replacement cost?

On average, the cost for a BMW 545i Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor Replacement is $212 with $72 for parts and $140 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

CarServiceEstimateShop/Dealer Price
2004 BMW 545iV8-4.4LService typeEngine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor ReplacementEstimate$298.96Shop/Dealer Price$341.25 - $453.95
2005 BMW 545iV8-4.4LService typeEngine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor ReplacementEstimate$289.95Shop/Dealer Price$329.15 - $439.53
Show example BMW 545i Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor Replacement prices

What is the Thermostatic Vacuum Sensor all about?

When the engine is started cold, it takes several minutes to reach operating temperature which is when the engine is running most efficiently. Vacuum is created whenever the engine is running and can be used to control one or more auxiliary vehicle options such as heater controls or cruise control, and is also used to control emissions systems such as exhaust gas recirculation, or EGR. It also controls vacuum for the distributor to advance or retard the spark, ensuring the engine runs as smooth as possible. Vacuum is supplied to these systems through hoses routed in the engine compartment. If engine vacuum was supplied to the EGR system when the engine was still cold, the engine would stumble or stall, and would do so until it reached operating temperature.

The thermostatic vacuum sensor is mounted in the intake manifold and uses coolant temperature to determine when the engine has reached operating temperature. Once it has warmed up, the thermostatic vacuum sensor opens and allows vacuum to flow through it to the vacuum-operated functions it controls. If the thermostatic vacuum sensor fails in the open position, it can be difficult to start the engine when it is cold and will run poorly until it warms up. If the vacuum sensor fails when it is closed, it may start properly but will lose power and run poorly at warm temperatures. It will burn fuel poorly, creating higher exhaust emissions that may fail a smog check. The engine light likely will come on when the vacuum sensor fails.

Keep in mind:

  • The thermostatic vacuum sensor is part of an emissions control system and is required to operate wherever emissions or smog regulations are enforced.

  • Any leaks in the vacuum system can mimic the symptoms of a failed thermostatic vacuum sensor. Diagnosis by a professional mechanic is the best way to confirm failure.

How it's done:

  • The vehicle battery is disconnected and the air cleaner top is removed for access
  • The defective thermostatic vacuum sensor is removed
  • The new thermostatic vacuum sensor is installed and the battery is reconnected
  • The engine is started and the thermostatic vacuum sensor is checked for operation
  • The air cleaner is reinstalled, repair is verified and the vehicle is road tested for proper operation

What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Thermostatic Vacuum Sensor?

  • The Check Engine light is on
  • Engine runs poorly on initial startup until the engine warms up
  • Engine stumbles, stalls, or has a lack of power when hot
  • Vehicle fails smog check

How important is this service?

The thermostatic vacuum sensor is an important part of the vacuum system that allows the engine to run smoothly and efficiently. If it is not working properly, your engine can stall or not start and you can be stranded in an inconvenient or dangerous situation. Have it checked and replaced by a licensed mechanic as soon as possible.

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Rating Summary
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3
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David

37 years of experience
195 reviews
David
37 years of experience
BMW 545i V8-4.4L - Alternator - Los Angeles, California
Amazing. He went out of his way to explain everything to me and show me other possible items that will need to be done in the future. He taught me a lot and helped me understand how to take care of my car better to have it run at its best. Very friendly and straight-forward. I trust him with my BMW from this day on!!

Mark

12 years of experience
349 reviews
Mark
12 years of experience
BMW 545i V8-4.4L - Oil Change - Los Gatos, California
Mark was great from start to finish. He took extreme care in changing out all fluids and explained everything whenever I had a question. I would highly recommend Mark again!

Christopher

6 years of experience
25 reviews
Christopher
6 years of experience
BMW 545i V8-4.4L - Alternator - Westminster, Colorado
Very quick and efficient. I would recommend and would use his services in the future.

Jimmy

30 years of experience
186 reviews
Jimmy
30 years of experience
BMW 545i V8-4.4L - Brake Pads Replacement (Rear) - Charlotte, North Carolina
This was my first time using My Mechanic, Jimmy was on time very polite did a great job I am very please with his work. Thank you

Excellent Rating

(37)

Rating Summary
33
3
1
0
0
33
3
1
0
0
Number of BMW 545i services completed
407+
services done by our mechanics
TOTAL NUMBER OF EXPERT BMW MECHANICS
1200+
experts on our platform

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