Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Coolant Temperature Sensor/Switch (For Computer): Service and Repair
2011 Chevrolet Impala V6-3.9LSECTION Service and Repair
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Replacement
Removal Procedure
Caution: Use care when handling the coolant sensor. Damage to the coolant sensor will affect the operation of the fuel control system.
1. Drain the cooling system. Refer to Cooling System Draining and Filling (9C1, 9C3 Static Fill) (9C1, 9C3 Static Fill)Cooling System Draining and Filling (LZE, LGD Static Fill) (Static Fill)Cooling System Draining and Filling (LZE, LGD GE47716 Fill) (GE47716 Fill).
2. Remove the intake manifold cover, if necessary. Refer to Intake Manifold Cover Replacement (Intake Manifold Cover Replacement).
3. Disconnect the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor electrical connector.
4. Remove the ECT sensor.
Installation Procedure
Caution: Replacement components must be the correct part number for the application. Components requiring the use of the thread locking compound, lubricants, corrosion inhibitors, or sealants are identified in the service procedure. Some replacement components may come with these coatings already applied. Do not use these coatings on components unless specified. These coatings can affect the final torque, which may affect the operation of the component. Use the correct torque specification when installing components in order to avoid damage.
1. Coat the threads of the ECT sensor with sealer GM P/N 13246004 (Canadian P/N 10953480) or equivalent.
Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution (Fastener Caution).
2. Install the ECT sensor and tighten to 20 Nm (15 lb ft).
3. Connect the ECT electrical connector.
4. Install the intake manifold cover, if necessary. Refer to Intake Manifold Cover Replacement (Intake Manifold Cover Replacement).
5. Fill the cooling system. Refer to Cooling System Draining and Filling (9C1, 9C3 Static Fill) (9C1, 9C3 Static Fill)Cooling System Draining and Filling (LZE, LGD Static Fill) (Static Fill)Cooling System Draining and Filling (LZE, LGD GE47716 Fill) (GE47716 Fill).
RENDER: 1.0x
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.