6 Signs Your P0117 Code Is Ruining Your Car

P0117 is a common OBD-II code that indicates that the engine coolant temperature sensor has gone bad. The most common symptoms of this code are a check engine light, a loss of power, and a rough idle. The fix for this code is to replace the coolant temperature sensor.

So How To Fix Engine Code P0117

:

1. Engine misfires
2. Poor fuel economy
3. Rough idle
4. Increased emissions
5. Check engine light
6. Damage to the catalytic converter

Understanding Engine Code P0117: Causes and Symptoms

Causes of Engine Code P0117

The P0117 code is triggered when the Engine Control Module (ECM) detects a low voltage input from the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor. This can be caused by various issues such as a faulty ECT sensor
wiring problems
low coolant levels
or a malfunctioning thermostat.

Symptoms of Engine Code P0117

When the P0117 code is present
the vehicle may exhibit symptoms such as poor fuel economy
rough idling
difficulty starting
or an illuminated check engine light on the dashboard. It’s important to address these symptoms promptly to prevent further damage to the engine.

Diagnosing and Fixing Engine Code P0117

Diagnostic Steps

As a Manufacturer and Dealership
we recommend a systematic approach to diagnosing and fixing the P0117 code. The following steps can help identify and resolve the issue:

Step 1: Visual Inspection

Begin by visually inspecting the ECT sensor and its wiring harness for any signs of damage
corrosion
or loose connections. Ensure that the coolant level is adequate and that there are no leaks in the cooling system.

Step 2: ECT Sensor Testing

Use a multimeter to test the ECT sensor for proper resistance values at different temperatures. Compare the readings to the manufacturer’s specifications to determine if the sensor is functioning correctly.

Step 3: Wiring and Connector Inspection

Inspect the wiring and connectors associated with the ECT sensor for any signs of wear
damage
or corrosion. Repair or replace any faulty wiring or connectors as needed.

Step 4: Thermostat Inspection

Check the thermostat to ensure it is opening and closing properly. A malfunctioning thermostat can affect the accuracy of the ECT sensor readings and trigger the P0117 code.

Step 5: Coolant System Pressure Test

Perform a pressure test on the coolant system to check for any leaks or pressure irregularities. Address any leaks or system issues that are identified during the test.

FAQs about P0117 Engine Code

What does P0117 mean?

P0117 is a generic OBD-II code that indicates that the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor circuit is reporting a voltage that is too low.

What causes P0117?

There are a few possible causes for P0117, including:

A faulty ECT sensor
A wiring problem between the ECT sensor and the PCM
A problem with the PCM itself

What are the symptoms of P0117?

Symptoms of P0117 may include:

A check engine light on the dashboard
A rough idle
A decrease in fuel economy
Engine overheating

How is P0117 diagnosed?

P0117 can be diagnosed by a qualified technician using a scan tool. The technician will connect the scan tool to the vehicle’s OBD-II port and retrieve the diagnostic trouble code (DTC). The technician will then use the scan tool to monitor the ECT sensor data and verify that the voltage is within the specified range.

How is P0117 fixed?

P0117 can be fixed by replacing the ECT sensor, repairing the wiring between the ECT sensor and the PCM, or replacing the PCM itself. The specific repair will depend on the cause of the code.