P0116
Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Range/Performance
What it means
The coolant temperature sensor reading does not change plausibly during warm-up, or its value disagrees with the intake air temperature when the engine has been off long enough that they should match. Often caused by a sensor that reports near a fixed value despite engine warm-up.
Is it safe to drive?
The vehicle is usually drivable for short distances, but the problem can worsen or affect emissions. Diagnose and repair as soon as practical.
Most likely causes
Sensor drifting outside specification
highOne of the most commonly reported causes for this code — check this first.
Thermostat stuck open (engine never reaches operating temperature)
mediumA plausible cause — test and verify before replacing parts.
Sensor element aged beyond calibration window
lowLess common, but worth ruling out after the more likely causes.
Related help
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