[bsa_pro_ad_space id=14]
In this video, young aspiring mechanical engineer Aiman will show you how to test an engine coolant temperature sensor also known by many other names such as thermostat temp fan switch in your car by putting it in a pot of boiling water.
In a normal device, testing for continuity or ohm resistance can be done without this method, however some of the coolant temperature switches such as those for Honda Accord, Civic, CRV, Element, Pilot, Odyssey and even other make and models only have an on or off switch feature. In other words they are activated (current can flow through) only when they exceeded a certain preset or predetermine temperature such as 191 degree Fahrenheit. Some temperature switch would have a resistance of 2 kilo ohm at normal room temperature and the resistance would decrease and the water or coolant temperature rises. These type of switches can be tested without the use of boiling water.
The switches tested in this video are specific for Honda Accord 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006 & 2007 models DX, LX, EX 2.4L and 3.0L V6.
This method is very effective for situations where you bought the parts from say a junk yard and you would like to know if the sensor work before installing it in your vehicle in order to repair or fix your problem. Even some auto parts store would not allow you to return the parts if it’s already been installed (usually ok with defective exchanges), however why wouldn’t you want to test the parts first before installing it, especially with the cheap aftermarket parts which may have some defect rate as opposed to a more expensive better quality genuine OEM parts. After all, the main purpose of DIY auto repair is to save money instead of having to send to a garage, shop or dealership.
Ways to check the temperature sensor without having to remove it:
Step 1 – Locate Coolant Temperature Sensor
The coolant temperature sensor is located on the engine block under the hood. Pull the latch for the hood and open it, making sure it is secure before letting go.
You will search for the sensor within the engine block itself, using a drop light if you need help to see it better. Look at the front of the engine block in the middle of the pulleys. You will see a small terminal sticking out of the block with a wire lead coming from it. This is your coolant temperature sensor.
Step 2 – Connect Digital Volt-Ohm Meter
Testing the coolant temperature sensor is a very quick process. With the use of a digital volt-ohm meter you can easily tell if the sensor is faulty or not. Connect the black lead of the digital ohm meter to a solid grounding. This can be any solid piece of metal. Next, connect the red lead to the terminal end of the coolant temperature sensor. Before turning the meter on, set the digital reading to the 20K range.
Step 3 – Check Readings
For the testing process you will need to turn the engine on. Let the engine run for a full two minutes to allow the engine to get up to running temperature. While the engine is running you need to be continually checking the digital ohm meter. You are looking for readings that are more than 200 ohms in variance between a cold and warm engine. If you do not see anything that is more than 200 ohms in difference, the coolant temperature sensor is defective and will need to be replaced.
Step 4 – Check With Cold Sensor
If you have a new sensor on hand and want to check it, you can do this easy test. Connect the black lead of the meter to the body of the cold sensor and the red to the terminal. You should have a reading of approximately 2000 ohms. Check the warm sensor in your engine. You should see a much lower reading on the digital meter. If not, then it is not working correctly.
What is coolant temperature sensor?
The coolant temperature sensor is what tells the car’s computer what the engine’s running temperature is. This will then translate to how the engine runs. Before the automated systems in vehicles, this was the sole purpose of the choke. Now, with this special sensor, the engine will adjust itself so that it runs smoothly even on the coldest days and does not overheat once the temperature rises. Testing this coolant temperature sensor, and then replacing it if needed, is a very easy process.
If you want to know how to remove, replace or install ECT Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Switch in you car, please watch the following video:
Disclaimer of Liability (No Responsibility): Please exercise due diligence with information obtained from this video. The information contained in this video is for entertainment purposes and should only be treated as such.
[bsa_pro_ad_space id=15]
Likes: 14
Views: 363