Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor

1998 Mercury Sable V6-3.0L DOHC VIN SSECTION Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor
DESCRIPTION
The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor detects the temperature of engine coolant and supplies the information to the powertrain control module. The ECT sensor is threaded into the heater outlet fitting or cooling passage on the engine. For automatic transmission applications, the ECT is used to control torque converter clutch solenoid operation. For engine control applications, the ECT signal is used to modify ignition timing, EGR flow, and air-to-fuel ratio as a function of engine coolant temperature. On electronic instrument cluster applications, the ECT output is used to control a coolant temperature indicator.

SYMPTOMS
Torque converter clutch solenoid will always be OFF, resulting in reduced fuel economy.

DTCs
P0116; P0117, P0118, P1116, P1117
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.