LEMON Manuals: Even more car manuals for everyone: 1960-2025
Home >> Chrysler >> 2000 >> Intrepid Base >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Engine Performance >> System >> Engine Controls - Self-Diagnostics >> Diagnostic Tests >> DTC P0125: Closed Loop Temp Not Reached Or DTC P1281: Engine Is Cold Too Long >> Testing
April 5, 2026: LEMON Manuals is launched! Read the announcement.

DTC P0125: Closed Loop Temp Not Reached Or DTC P1281: Engine Is Cold Too Long: Testing

NOTE: To diagnose this DTC, manufacturer recommends allowing vehicle to sit overnight in order to have a totally cold engine.
  1. Allow engine to cool. Check cooling system for proper coolant level and condition. Replace coolant as necessary. If coolant level is okay and coolant is in good condition, go to next step.
  2. Turn ignition on. Using scan tool, read ENG COOLANT TPM DEG value. If engine was allowed to sit overnight, scan tool temperature value should be near ambient air temperature. If engine coolant temperature is more than 180°F (82.2°C), allow engine coolant temperature to cool down to 150°F (65.5.°C) before proceeding. If engine coolant temperature is 150°F (65.5°C) or less, start engine. Using scan tool, monitor ENG COOLANT TPM DEG until engine coolant temperature reaches 180°F (82.2°C). Temperature value should increase smoothly from start-up to normal operating temperature. Also monitor actual coolant temperature with a thermometer. As engine warms up to normal operating temperature, actual coolant temperature should be relatively close to temperature reading on scan tool. Monitor coolant temperature and note when thermostat opens. Thermostat should open at about 190°F (87.7°C). Replace thermostat as necessary. If thermostat opens as specified, go to next step.
  3. Ensure ignition is off. If coolant temperature increased smoothly, no problem is indicated at this time. Test is complete. If temperature did not increase smoothly, disconnect PCM connectors. PCM is located on left side of engine compartment, between Power Distribution Center (PDC) and Transmission Control Module (TCM). See Figure. Visually inspect connectors for corroded, damaged, pushed-out or miswired terminals. Repair connectors as necessary. If connectors are okay, go to next step.
  4. Turn ignition off. Disconnect ECT sensor connector. ECT sensor is located next to thermostat housing. Visually inspect connector for corroded, damaged, pushed-out or miswired terminals. Repair connector as necessary. If connector is okay, replace ECT sensor.
scientia non olet · About LEMON Manuals