The engine coolant temperature sensor is exposed to the coolant flow in the engine block, engine cylinder head, or both. It constantly coolant engine temperature information to the engine control unit and the temperature gauge.
How does the engine coolant temperature sensor work?
As the engine runs, combustion events occur thousands of times per minute; heat is a byproduct of engine operation. To prevent that heat from destroying the engine, a liquid cooling system is used. Beginning with the engine, the cooling system uses coolant passages inside the engine block, cylinder head, and possibly the intake manifold. These passages allow coolant to flow through these components to absorb heat. The engine coolant temperature sensor reads the temperature of the coolant in one or more of these passages, and relays that information to the vehicle computer. The computer will send another signal to the engine temperature gauge, and alert the driver if the temperature exceeds the specified range for that vehicle.
What are the symptoms related to a bad engine coolant temperature sensor?
When the engine coolant temperature sensor fails, it will send inaccurate information to the vehicle’s computer, causing the computer to react to false operating conditions. This will cause the engine to consume more fuel than normal, depleting fuel mileage, and causing black, sooty smoke from the engine under moderate to heavy acceleration. The check engine light will illuminate, and on-board diagnostic trouble codes may be stored for exhaust and emission system failure, fuel delivery system failure, and engine cooling system failure. Overheating may also occur, as the coolant sensor may be leaking fluid out of the engine, creating a an air pocket in the system.
Can I drive with a engine coolant temperature sensor problem?
Driving a vehicle with a faulty engine cooling system can result in overheating, cylinder head gasket failure, engine block failure, or cylinder head warping. It is never recommended to drive a vehicle with engine cooling issues, especially with modern engine casting materials. Additionally, the operating conditions for the engine may cause fouling of the catalyst, and oxygen sensors.
How often do engine coolant temperature sensors need to be replaced?
Engine temperature sensor failure is not uncommon. Failing to maintain the engine cooling systems per factory scheduled maintenance intervals leads to corrosion of the sensor where it enters the engine coolant passages. Failure due to corrosion will generally be after the 100,000 mile mark, but may occur earlier if the cooling system is not properly maintained.
Jeep Renegade Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Replacement Costs
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Jeep Renegade Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Replacement Costs
RepairSmith offers upfront and competitive pricing. The average cost for Jeep Renegade Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Replacement is $131. Drop it off at our shop and pick it up a few hours later, or save time and have our Delivery mechanics come to you.
2018 Jeep Renegade
2.4L L4 Limited • 34,000 miles
, CA 92803
$126 - $154
2020 Jeep Renegade
2.4L L4 Altitude • 10,000 miles
, CA 91733
$119 - $145
2016 Jeep Renegade
2.4L L4 Latitude • 18,000 miles
, CA 92587
$131 - $161
Last Updated:Dec 15, 2020 8:45 PM
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