OBD Guide

P0119

Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Intermittent/Erratic

P0119 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code meaning: Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Intermittent/Erratic. Common causes: faulty coolant temperature sensor, damaged or oxidized sensor wiring. Estimated repair cost: $6–89.

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

Symptoms

  • Unstable engine operation at idle
  • Increased fuel consumption
  • Inaccurate temperature readings on the instrument panel
  • Cooling fan not turned on in time
  • Poor engine starting when cold
  • Jerks when accelerating
  • Check Engine Light Illuminates

Causes

  • Faulty coolant temperature sensor
  • Damaged or oxidized sensor wiring
  • Poor contact in the sensor connector
  • Low coolant level
  • Sensor contact corrosion
  • Engine control unit (ECU) malfunction
  • Air lock in the cooling system

How to Fix

  1. Check the coolant level and add if necessary
  2. Inspect the sensor connector for corrosion and damage.
  3. Clean the connector contacts and treat with contact spray
  4. Check the resistance of the sensor with a multimeter at different temperatures
  5. Check the wiring from the sensor to the ECU for opens and short circuits
  6. Replace coolant temperature sensor
  7. Remove air pockets from the cooling system
  8. Clear error codes and test drive

Related codes

Error P0119 by Vehicle Brand

FAQ

What does the P0119 code mean?

P0119 is an OBD-II diagnostic trouble code that indicates: Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Intermittent/Erratic

What causes a P0119 error code?

The most common causes of P0119 include: Faulty coolant temperature sensor; Damaged or oxidized sensor wiring; Poor contact in the sensor connector; Low coolant level.

How do I fix a P0119 diagnostic trouble code?

To fix P0119: Check the coolant level and add if necessary. Inspect the sensor connector for corrosion and damage.. Clean the connector contacts and treat with contact spray. For a complete diagnosis, use an OBD-II scanner.

Is it safe to drive with P0119?

Limited driving only, diagnose soon

How much does it cost to fix P0119?

The estimated repair cost for P0119 is $6–89. Actual cost depends on your vehicle, location, and labor rates.

See also: Russian version · NationStat