OBD Guide

P0115

Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit

P0115 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning: Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit. Common causes: faulty coolant temperature sensor, damage to the wiring to the sensor. Estimated repair cost: $6–89.

Severity
⚠️ Medium
Can you drive?
Limited driving only, diagnose soon
Approx. repair cost
$6–89 (est.)

Symptoms

  • Increased fuel consumption
  • Unstable engine operation at idle
  • Difficulty starting the engine, especially when cold
  • Inaccurate temperature readings on the dashboard
  • The cooling fan turns on at the wrong time
  • Black smoke from the exhaust pipe
  • Engine overheating

Causes

  • Faulty coolant temperature sensor
  • Damage to the wiring to the sensor
  • Corrosion or oxidation of connector contacts
  • Faulty sensor connector
  • Low coolant level
  • Engine control module (ECM) malfunction
  • Short circuit in the sensor circuit

How to Fix

  1. Check the coolant level and add if necessary
  2. Inspect the sensor connector for corrosion and damage.
  3. Check the resistance of the sensor with a multimeter (should vary depending on the temperature)
  4. Check the integrity of the wiring from the sensor to the ECM
  5. Check the supply voltage at the sensor connector (usually 5V)
  6. Replace coolant temperature sensor
  7. Clean connector contacts or replace connector if necessary
  8. Reset error codes and take a test drive

Related codes

Error P0115 by Vehicle Brand

FAQ

What does the P0115 code mean?

P0115 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code that indicates: Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit

What causes a P0115 error code?

The most common causes of P0115 include: Faulty coolant temperature sensor; Damage to the wiring to the sensor; Corrosion or oxidation of connector contacts; Faulty sensor connector.

How do I fix a P0115 diagnostic trouble code?

To fix P0115: Check the coolant level and add if necessary. Inspect the sensor connector for corrosion and damage.. Check the resistance of the sensor with a multimeter (should vary depending on the temperature). For a complete diagnosis, use an OBD-II scanner.

Is it safe to drive with P0115?

Limited driving only, diagnose soon

How much does it cost to fix P0115?

The estimated repair cost for P0115 is $6–89. Actual cost depends on your vehicle, location, and labor rates.

See also: Russian version · NationStat