OBD Guide

P0117

Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low

P0117 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning: Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low. Common causes: coolant temperature sensor malfunction, short circuit in the sensor wiring to ground. Estimated repair cost: $8–44.

Severity
⚠️ Medium
Can you drive?
Limited driving only, diagnose soon
Approx. repair cost
$8–44 (est.)

Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light Illuminates
  • Increased fuel consumption
  • Unstable engine idling
  • Difficulty starting the engine
  • Black smoke from the exhaust pipe
  • Incorrect temperature readings on the dashboard
  • Constant operation of the cooling fan

Causes

  • Coolant temperature sensor malfunction
  • Short circuit in the sensor wiring to ground
  • Broken or damaged wires to the sensor
  • Corrosion of sensor connector contacts
  • Engine ECU malfunction
  • Low coolant level
  • Air lock in the cooling system

How to Fix

  1. Read error codes and freeze frame data
  2. Check the coolant level and add if necessary
  3. Inspect the sensor connector for corrosion and damage.
  4. Measure the resistance of the sensor with a multimeter (should be about 2-3 kOhm at 20°C)
  5. Check the supply voltage at the sensor connector (should be 5V)
  6. Check the integrity of the wiring from the sensor to the ECU
  7. If necessary, replace the temperature sensor
  8. Clear error codes and test drive
  9. Recheck the system for errors

Related codes

Error P0117 by Vehicle Brand

FAQ

What does the P0117 code mean?

P0117 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code that indicates: Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low

What causes a P0117 error code?

The most common causes of P0117 include: Coolant temperature sensor malfunction; Short circuit in the sensor wiring to ground; Broken or damaged wires to the sensor; Corrosion of sensor connector contacts.

How do I fix a P0117 diagnostic trouble code?

To fix P0117: Read error codes and freeze frame data. Check the coolant level and add if necessary. Inspect the sensor connector for corrosion and damage.. For a complete diagnosis, use an OBD-II scanner.

Is it safe to drive with P0117?

Limited driving only, diagnose soon

How much does it cost to fix P0117?

The estimated repair cost for P0117 is $8–44. Actual cost depends on your vehicle, location, and labor rates.

See also: Russian version · NationStat