OBD-II code · Powertrain (generic)
P0117 Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Low Input
The ECT signal voltage is below threshold, which the ECU interprets as an implausibly hot coolant temperature (typical NTC sensor characteristic — low resistance at high temperature).
Is it safe to drive with P0117?
Usually safe to drive in the short term. Get it diagnosed when convenient, sooner if the car drives differently.
Common causes
- Most likelySignal wire shorted to ground
- PossibleSensor failed shorted internally
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Cooling fan runs constantly or not at all
- Cabin heater weak or excessively hot
- Possible long warm-up time or hard cold start
Repair at a glance
- Difficulty
- Easy
- DIY friendly
- Often, with basic tools
- Typical labour
- 0.3–1.5 h
- Emissions test
- Likely to fail
- After the fix
- A drive cycle is needed before the light stays off
- Parts involved
- Coolant Temperature Sensor, Coolant Temperature Sensor Wiring
Related codes
- P0114Intake Air Temperature Sensor Intermittent
- P0115Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Malfunction
- P0116Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Range/Performance
- P0118Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor High Input
- P0119Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent
- P011AEngine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1/2 Correlation
Code data: OBDex open dataset (CC0). Labour times are typical ranges, not a quote.