P0116: Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Circuit Range/Performance
The coolant temperature sensor reading doesn't match what the engine computer expects, such as not warming up as fast as it should.
Green, yellow, red: three ways P0116 can look
The same code can be a quick fix or a reason to pull over. Match your situation to the closest example.
Keep an eye on it
Gauge reads normal and the code set once.
Schedule a repair
Gauge reads low or the heater is weak. Schedule a thermostat or sensor check.
Stop and get help
Gauge reading hot or steam. Pull over and shut it off.
Symptoms you might notice
- Temperature gauge acting odd
- Poor fuel economy
- Hard starting
Common causes, cheapest first
- Thermostat stuck open
- Low coolant
- Failing coolant temperature sensor
- Wiring problem
What you can check before calling
- Check coolant level with the engine cold
- Watch whether the temperature gauge reaches normal
A code points to a system, not a part. Replacing parts based on the code alone is how people spend money without fixing the problem. Testing confirms the cause first.
Want the full story? Read our guide: Car overheating: what to do right now, and what's causing it.
Generic codes (second character 0) mean the same thing on every vehicle. Some manufacturers add their own details, so check service information for your exact vehicle.
Related codes
More cooling & temperature codes
Look up another code
Cummins fault code (like 1922), J1939 SPN and FMI (like SPN 3251 FMI 0), or an OBD-II code (like P0420).
Questions
What does P0116 mean?
P0116 means "Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Circuit Range/Performance". The coolant temperature sensor reading doesn't match what the engine computer expects, such as not warming up as fast as it should.
Can I drive with code P0116?
It depends on what the vehicle is doing. Green: Gauge reads normal and the code set once. Yellow: Gauge reads low or the heater is weak. Schedule a thermostat or sensor check. Red: Gauge reading hot or steam. Pull over and shut it off.
What causes P0116?
The most common causes are: thermostat stuck open; low coolant; failing coolant temperature sensor.
Is P0116 a serious code?
It can be. Gauge reading hot or steam. Pull over and shut it off.
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