P0116 Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance
What does P0116 mean?
P0116 — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance. This is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code a scanner retrieves when your vehicle's computer detects engine coolant temperature sensor 1 circuit range/performance. The level of risk depends on how the vehicle is currently running and how long you've been driving with the light on.
Common causes of P0116
- Stuck-open or stuck-closed thermostat
- Faulty or slow coolant temperature sensor
- Low coolant level or air in the system
- Sensor reading implausibly for warm-up conditions
How to fix P0116
- Note the ECT rise during warm-up with a scan tool
- Check coolant level and thermostat operation
- Test the sensor's resistance and calibration
- Replace the thermostat if the engine fails to reach temperature
- Replace the sensor if readings are erratic