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Home >> Acura >> 2012 >> TL Base >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Engine Performance >> System >> PGM-FI System >> DTC Troubleshooting >> DTC P0116: ECT Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance Problem
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DTC P0116: ECT Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance Problem

NOTE: Before you troubleshoot, record all freeze data and any on-board snapshot, and review the general troubleshooting information (see GENERAL TROUBLESHOOTING INFORMATION ).
  1. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II), or press the engine start/stop button to select the ON mode.
  2. Check ECT SENSOR 1 in the DATA LIST with the HDS.

    Is about 176°F (80°C) or more, or 0.78 V or less indicated? 

    YES  - Go to step  6.

    NO  - Go to step 3.

  3. Note the value of ECT SENSOR 1 in the DATA LIST with the HDS.
  4. Start the engine. Hold the engine speed at 3, 000 RPM without load (A/T in P or N, M/T in neutral) until the radiator fan comes on, then let it idle.
  5. Check ECT SENSOR 1 in the DATA LIST with the HDS.

    Does ECT SENSOR 1 change 18°F (10°C) or more? 

    YES  - Intermittent failure, the system is OK at this time. Check for poor connections or loose terminals at ECT sensor 1 and the ECM/PCM. ■

    NO  - Go to step  11.

  6. Note the value of ECT SENSOR 1 in the DATA LIST with the HDS.
  7. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0), or press the engine start/stop button to select the OFF mode.
  8. Open the hood, and let the engine cool for 3 hours.
  9. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II), or press the engine start/stop button to select the ON mode.
  10. Check ECT SENSOR 1 in the DATA LIST with the HDS.

    Does ECT SENSOR 1 change 18°F (10°C) or more? 

    YES  - Intermittent failure, the system is OK at this time. Check for poor connections or loose terminals at ECT sensor 1 and the ECM/PCM. ■

    NO  - Go to step 11.

  11. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0), or press the engine start/stop button to select the OFF mode.
  12. Replace ECT sensor 1 (see ECT Sensor 1 Replacement ).
  13. Turn the ignition switch to ON (II), or press the engine start/stop button to select the ON mode.
  14. Reset the ECM/PCM with the HDS.
  15. Do the ECM/PCM idle learn procedure (see ECM/PCM IDLE LEARN PROCEDURE ).
  16. Check for Pending or Confirmed DTCs with the HDS.

    Is DTC P0116 indicated? 

    YES  - Check for poor connections or loose terminals at ECT sensor 1 and the ECM/PCM, then go to step  1.

    NO  - Troubleshooting is complete. If any other Pending or Confirmed DTCs are indicated, go to the indicated DTC's troubleshooting. ■