Monitor Description

The ECT (Engine Coolant Temperature) sensor is used to monitor the temperature of the engine coolant. The resistance of the sensor varies with the actual coolant temperature. The ECM applies a voltage to the sensor and the varying resistance of the sensor causes the signal voltage to vary. The ECM monitors the ECT signal voltage after engine start-up. If the sensor still reports that the engine is not warm up enough for closed-loop fuel control after sufficient time has passed, the ECM interprets this as a fault in the sensor or cooling system.

Example:

The engine coolant temperature was 0°C (32°F) at engine start. After 5 min. running time, the coolant temperature sensor still indicates that the engine is not warm up enough to begin the air-fuel ratio feedback control. The ECM interprets this as a fault in the sensor or cooling system and will set a DTC.