Chevrolet Code P0116 is an engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor performance diagnosis trouble code (DTC). It is triggered when the engine control module (ECM) detects a temperature difference at power-up that indicates the ECT sensor is between 30°C and 10 °C warmer than the IAT sensor. Other DTCs, such as P0111, P0112, P0113, P0117, P0118, P0502, P0503, and P2610 usually accompany this code. To properly diagnose this code, it is important to understand the causes and solutions associated with it. This article will explore the potential causes and solutions for this code.
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Causes and Solutions for Chevrolet Code P0116
| Cause | Solution |
|---|---|
| ECM detects a temperature difference of 30°C (54°F) warmer than the IAT sensor | Replace the ECT sensor. |
| ECM detects a temperature difference of 10°C (18°F) warmer than the IAT sensor, and the time spent cranking the engine is greater than 10s when the fuel level is greater than 5% | Check the fuel pressure and fuel level. |
| ECM detects a temperature difference of 20°C (36°F) greater than the IAT sensor | Check for engine block heater |
| IAT sensor does not decrease | Replace the IAT sensor |
ECM Detects a Temperature Difference of 30°C
When the ECM detects a temperature difference of 30°C (54°F) warmer than the IAT sensor, it is likely that the ECT sensor has failed and needs to be replaced. The ECM compares the temperature of the ECT sensor to the IAT sensor on power-up, and if there is a significant difference, it will trigger the P0116 code.
ECM Detects a Temperature Difference of 10°C
When the ECM detects a temperature difference of 10°C (18°F) warmer than the IAT sensor, the time spent cranking the engine must be greater than 10 seconds. This indicates that the fuel level is higher than 5%. It is important to check the fuel pressure and level in this situation. If the fuel pressure is low, the pump must be replaced.
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ECM Detects a Temperature Difference of 20°C
When the ECM detects a temperature difference of 20°C (36°F) greater than the IAT sensor, it is important to check for an engine block heater. If the engine block heater is faulty, the ECT sensor cannot accurately measure the engine coolant’s temperature.
IAT Sensor Does Not Decrease
If the IAT sensor does not decrease, it is likely that the IAT sensor has failed and needs to be replaced. This can affect the accuracy of the ECT sensor, as the ECM will not be able to measure the temperature difference between the ECT sensor and the IAT sensor accurately.
Conclusion
Chevrolet Code P0116 is an engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor performance diagnosis trouble code (DTC). It is triggered when the ECM detects a temperature difference at power-up that indicates the ECT sensor is between 30°C and 10 °C warmer than the IAT sensor. This article explored the causes and solutions for this code, such as replacing the ECT sensor, checking for an engine block heater, and replacing the IAT sensor. Understanding the potential causes and solutions related to Chevrolet Code P0116 is important to diagnose this code and prevent further issues properly.
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