P0118 is a generic OBD-II trouble code that means: Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor – Circuit High. You can drive carefully for a short time, but have it fixed promptly. Ignoring it can reduce performance and damage other parts.
What does P0118 mean?
P0118 is a generic OBD-II trouble code that means: Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor – Circuit High. The engine control module (ECM) stores this code when it detects a fault related to: Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor.
Can I still drive?
You can drive carefully for a short time, but have it fixed promptly. Ignoring it can reduce performance and damage other parts.
Symptoms
- Check engine light is on
- Hard starting
- Higher fuel consumption
- Engine overheating
- Black smoke from the exhaust
Common causes
- Faulty sensor or component
- Damaged wiring or a loose/corroded connector
- Low coolant level or a cooling system fault
- Thermostat stuck open or closed
How to fix it
- Read all stored codes and freeze-frame data with an OBD-II scanner
- Check the coolant level and look for leaks
- Inspect the wiring and connectors for damage, corrosion or looseness
- Test the sensor with a multimeter against the manufacturer's specification
- Replace the faulty component with a quality part
- Clear the code and road-test the car to confirm the repair
Frequently asked questions
What does code P0118 mean?
P0118 is a generic OBD-II trouble code that means: Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor – Circuit High. The engine control module (ECM) stores this code when it detects a fault related to: Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor.
What causes code P0118?
The most common causes are: Faulty sensor or component; Damaged wiring or a loose/corroded connector; Low coolant level or a cooling system fault; Thermostat stuck open or closed.
How do I fix code P0118?
Start with these steps: Read all stored codes and freeze-frame data with an OBD-II scanner; Check the coolant level and look for leaks; Inspect the wiring and connectors for damage, corrosion or looseness; Test the sensor with a multimeter against the manufacturer's specification.
Is it safe to drive with code P0118?
Severity: Medium. You can drive carefully for a short time, but have it fixed promptly. Ignoring it can reduce performance and damage other parts.