P0118

Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit 1 High Input

Description

Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit 1 High Input This body system diagnostic trouble code indicates an issue with the vehicle's comfort, safety, or convenience systems.

OBD Codes Details

OBD Code
P0118
OBD Type
P
System
body_electrical
Severity
low
Common Issue
Yes

Possible Causes

Blown fuse, faulty switch, damaged wiring harness, poor electrical connection

Solution

Check fuses and relays, inspect wiring harness, test switches and sensors, repair damaged circuits

Symptoms

  • Check engine light illuminated
  • Cooling fans may not activate when needed
  • Engine running lean, potential overheating
  • Inaccurate or stuck temperature gauge reading
  • Poor fuel economy

Diagnostic Recommendations

  1. Inspect ECT sensor wiring for an open circuit
  2. Check ECT sensor connector for damage or poor contact
  3. Test ECT sensor resistance at known coolant temperatures
  4. Verify coolant level is adequate
  5. Replace ECT sensor if it reads open circuit

Repair Cost Estimate

  • ECT sensor replacement: $20-100
  • Wiring repair: $80-200
  • Coolant top-off: $30-80
  • Diagnostic scan: $80-150
  • Total diagnostic and repair: $100-400

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Fact-checking completed

Verified by: Pavel Volkov
Created:
Last updated:
Information verified against official sources

Official Sources

Society of Automotive Engineers

Official OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes standard (SAE J2012)

Automotive engineering standards organization

International Organization for Standardization

International standard for vehicle diagnostic systems

International standards for automotive diagnostics