Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.
Manuals through 2025 now available!

Our trusted friends have launched a new website named LEMON, which has newer manuals. It also contains all the CHARM manuals.

LEMON is the spiritual successor to CHARM, I recommend you try it!

Link: lemon-manuals.la or lemon-manuals.org.ua

(Some people have issue connecting. LEMON is investigating. For now, use Firefox or change your DNS server)

Or, hide this message: temporarily or permanently

Engine - Coolant Temperature Sensor/Switch: Testing and Inspection

NOTE: Perform the following test only when directed.

Resistance Inspection

1. Drain the engine coolant.
2. Remove the ECT sensor.




3. Place the ECT sensor in water with a thermometer, and heat the water gradually.







4. Measure the resistance between the ECT sensor terminals using an ohmmeter.
- If not as specified, replace the ECT sensor.
- If the ECT sensor is okay, but PID value or PCM terminal 38 voltage are out of specification, perform the "Circuit Open/Short Inspection".

Circuit Open/Short Inspection

1. Disconnect the PCM connector.




2. Connect the SST (104 Pin Breakout Box) with the PCM disconnected.
3. Tighten the connector attaching bolt.

Tightening torque
3.0 - 5.4 N.m (30 - 56 kgf.cm, 27 - 48 in.lbf}




4. Inspect the following wiring harness for open or short (Continuity check).

Open circuit
- If there is no continuity, the circuit is open. Repair or replace the harness.
- ECT sensor terminal 1 (harness-side) and 104 pin breakout box terminal 38
- ECT sensor terminal 2 (harness-side) and 104 pin breakout box terminal 91

Short circuit
- If there is continuity, the circuit is shorted. Repair or replace the harness.
- ECT sensor terminal 1 (harness-side) and power supply
- ECT sensor terminal 1 (harness-side) and body ground
- ECT sensor terminal 2 (harness-side) and power supply