P0116 Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Range/Performance

Powertrain Severity: Moderate Generic OBD-II

The coolant temperature reading changes in a way that does not make sense.

Common causes

  • Thermostat stuck open
  • Faulty ECT sensor
  • Low coolant

Symptoms

  • Check engine light
  • Slow warm-up
  • Weak cabin heat

What to check

  1. Watch warm-up curve on a scan tool
  2. Check thermostat operation
  3. Check coolant level

Manufacturers may add their own detail to generic codes. If your vehicle shows a different description for P0116, follow the service information for that make and model.

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