P0118

Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit 1 High Input

Description

Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit 1 High Input. This powertrain diagnostic trouble code covers the engine, the fuel and ignition systems, emission control and the transmission.

OBD Codes Details

OBD Code
P0118
OBD Type
P
System
Fuel and Air Metering
Severity
medium
Common Issue
Yes

Possible Causes

Faulty sensor, intake leak, clogged fuel filter, weak fuel pump, damaged wiring

Solution

Check for intake leaks, inspect and clean the sensor, measure fuel pressure, compare live data against the expected range

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:
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