How does the ECT sensor work in a car?
The engine coolant temperature sensor, also known as the ECT sensor, is a negative temperature coefficient thermistor – meaning, the electrical resistance goes down, while the temperature rises. When a signal from the ECT sensor is missing or it is outside of the expected range, the powertrain control module turns on the check engine light.
Where does the coolant temperature ( ECT ) sensor go?
The readings from the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor; are sent back to the engine control unit (ECU). The engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor is one of the most important; engine management sensors.
Why does my ECT sensor always read hot May?
So, a faulty (ECT) sensor that always reads cold may; cause the fuel control system to run rich pollute and waste fuel. Also, a (ECT) sensor that always reads hot may; cause cold driveability problems such as stalling, hesitation and rough idle.
What is the resistance of an ECT sensor?
The ECT sensor is shown on fig. 1. Fig. 1 In order to convert the ECT resistance variation to voltage variation, which is further processed by the ECU, the ECT sensor is connected in a circuit typically supplied with a reference voltage of +5V. In cold engine and an ambient temperature of 20 ºC the sensor resistance is between 2000Ω and 3000Ω.
What happens when the ECT sensor is not working?
Your vehicle may crank but not start. When there’s a problem with the ECT sensor or its circuits, the PCM will see one of the three distinct conditions: It will receive input from the ECT sensor indicating an extremely high coolant temperature. Usually around 250° F, even tho’ the engine is cold.
The readings from the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor; are sent back to the engine control unit (ECU). The engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor is one of the most important; engine management sensors.
Where are the 5 volts in the ECT sensor?
The engine coolant (ECT) temperature sensor has two wires in the connector. One is the power wire and this power is in the form of 5 Volts. These 5 Volts are created inside the PCM. The other wire is the Ground wire. This Ground is provided internally by the PCM too.
How does the CHT sensor work in a car?
The CHT sensor works similar to the ECt sensor, but it measures the cylinder head metal temperature. This allows the CHT sensor to measure the engine temperature correctly, even if the coolant is leaking.