Diesel Data: Automotive Repair

Advanced Diagnostics




DTC P0117 (6) Advanced Diagnostics

DTC P0117:

Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor 1 Circuit Low Voltage










General Description

Engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor 1 is used for air/fuel ratio feedback control, ignition timing control, idle speed control, and other functions. The ECT sensor 1 resistance varies depending on the engine coolant temperature. As the engine coolant cools, the ECT sensor 1 resistance increases, and the powertrain control module (PCM) detects a high signal voltage. As the engine coolant warms, the ECT sensor 1 resistance decreases, and the PCM detects a low signal voltage. If the ECT sensor 1 output voltage is a set value when the engine coolant temperature is high, the PCM detects a malfunction and stores a DTC.

Monitor Execution, Sequence, Duration, DTC Type, OBD Status





Enable Conditions





Malfunction Threshold

The ECT sensor 1 output voltage is 0.08 V or less for at least 2 seconds.

Diagnosis Details

Conditions for setting the DTC

When a malfunction is detected, the MIL comes on and a Pending DTC, a Confirmed DTC, and the freeze data are stored in the PCM memory.

Conditions for clearing the DTC

The MIL is cleared if the malfunction does not return in three consecutive trips in which the diagnostic runs. The MIL, the Pending DTC, the Confirmed DTC, and the freeze data can be cleared with using the scan tool Clear command or by disconnecting the battery.