OBD II Code P0116
Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Range/Performance Problem

Our emissions expert has put together the following information about the P0116 fault code. We have also included diagnostic procedures you can take to your repair shop if the mechanic is having difficulty analyzing the code.

OBD II Fault Code

OBD II P0116
Fault Code Definition
The Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor measures the rise and fall of the Engine Coolant Temperature. This provides critical data needed for the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) to control the Air Fuel Ratio, the Ignition Spark Timing, the cooling fans, and many components of the Emissions Control Systems. Code P0116 indicates a performance problem with the sensor signal to the Powertrain Control Module.

Symptoms

Check Engine Light will illuminate
In many cases, no abnormal symptoms may be noticed
In some cases, the engine may be hard starting and/or get poor fuel economy
Common Problems That Trigger the P0116 Code

Defective Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor
Rusty and/or corroded Engine Coolant
Faulty or corroded Engine Coolant Temperature wiring or connections

Common Misdiagnoses

Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor is replaced when the real cause is rusty coolant
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor is replaced when the real cause is a poor connection or chafed wiring
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor is replaced when the real problem is in the Cooling System

Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch “A” Circuit Low Input

Our emissions expert has put together the following information about the P0122 fault code. We have also included diagnostic procedures you can take to your repair shop if the mechanic is having difficulty analyzing the code.

OBD II Fault Code

OBD II P0122

Fault Code Definition
Code P0122 is triggered when the voltage output from the Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch to the PCM is too low.

The Throttle Position Sensor/Switch is located on the Throttle Body of the Intake Manifold and the Pedal Position Sensor/Switch is located on the Accelerator Pedal. These sensors provide precise input from the driver’s foot in terms of how much power is needed—and how urgently—from the engine.

As the Throttle Position Sensor is rotated from its base resting position to full acceleration, it sends a increasing voltage signal to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). This decreasing or increasing voltage signal is used by the PCM to manage the Air Fuel Ratio and Spark Timing of the engine as well as other emissions system components.

Symptoms

Check Engine Light will illuminate
In many cases, no abnormal symptoms may be noticed
In some cases, the engine may be hard starting
In some cases, the engine may hesitate during acceleration
Common Problems That Trigger the P0122 Code

Defective Throttle Position Sensor or Switch
Torn or jammed floor mats
Faulty or corroded Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch wiring or connections
Common Misdiagnoses

Throttle or Pedal Position Sensor is replaced when the real problem is a poor connection or chafed wiring
Pedal Position Sensor is replaced when the real problem is torn or damaged floor mats

Possible Solutions

Some recommended troubleshooting and repair steps are:

Carefully check the throttle position sensor (TPS), wiring connector, and wiring for breaks, etc. Repair or replace as necessary
Check the voltage at the TPS (refer to a service manual for your vehicle for specific information). If the voltage is too low that is indicative of a problem. Replace if necessary.
If recently replaced the TPS may need to be adjusted. On some vehicles the installation instructions call for the TPS to be properly aligned or adjusted, consult a repair manual for specifics.
If there are no symptoms at all, the problem may be intermittent and clearing the code may resolve the issue temporarily. If this is the case then you should definitely check the wiring to be sure it’s not rubbing on anything, grounding, etc. The code may come back.
Other TPS sensor and circuit related DTCs: P0120, P0121, P0123, P0124

Intake Cam Position Timing Over Retarded – Bank 2

Description:

How does a P0022 code trigger the check engine light? This code will trigger the check engine light under the following condition:

The comprehensive component monitor, referred to as the CCM, monitors the Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) position for over-retarded cam timing. If the cam timing exceeds a maximum calibrated limit or is stuck in a retarded position, the check engine light will come on and set this trouble code.

Possible Causes:

Incorrect camshaft timing
VCT solenoid valve stuck open or continuous oil flow to piston chamber
Camshaft advance mechanism binding, or faulty VCT unit

Diagnostic Help:

This check engine light code is caused by a mechanical fault of the VCT unit or related components, so there is no need for electrical diagnosis. Possible symptoms may include rough idle, stall or hard start. Refer to manufacturer specific component tests for the VCT unit. You may also use the “Get Help” link if you need specifications or have any other related questions. Remember to refer to an appropriate manual for specific instructions.

Intake Cam Position Timing Over Advanced – Bank 2

Description:

How does a P0021 code trigger the check engine light? This code will trigger the check engine light under the following condition:

The comprehensive component monitor, referred to as the CCM, monitors the Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) position for over-advanced cam timing. If the cam timing exceeds a maximum calibrated limit or is stuck in an advanced position, the check engine light will come on and set this trouble code.

Possible Causes:

Incorrect camshaft timing
VCT solenoid valve stuck open or continuous oil flow to piston chamber
Camshaft advance mechanism binding, or faulty VCT unit

Diagnostic Help:

This check engine light code is caused by a mechanical fault of the VCT unit or related components, so there is no need for electrical diagnosis. Possible symptoms may include rough idle, stall or hard start. Refer to manufacturer specific component tests for the VCT unit. You may also use the “Get Help” link if you need specifications or have any other related questions. Remember to refer to an appropriate manual for specific instructions.

Intake Cam Position Actuator Open Circuit – Bank 2

Description:

How does a P0020 code trigger the check engine light? This code will trigger the check engine light under the following condition:

The comprehensive component monitor, referred to as the CCM, monitors the Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) circuit to the computer for high and low voltages. If the voltage falls below a set limit for a specific amount of time during this test, the check engine light will come on and set this trouble code.

Possible Causes:

Open or short in the VCT circuit
Open in the Vehicle Power circuit
Open or short in the VCT solenoid valve itself
Damaged computer (PCM)

Diagnostic Help:

This check engine light code is caused by a circuit fault of the VCT system. Testing should include all related wiring circuits, the VCT solenoid and PCM itself. Please refer to out article on Automotive Circuit Testing for help with this. You may also use the “Get Help” link if you need specifications or have any other related questions. Remember to refer to an appropriate manual for specific instructions.

Recent Comments
  • Reset the Maintenance Light on Dacia Sandero
    How to Reset the Maintenance Light on Dacia Sandero: A Detailed Guide Owning a Dacia Sandero comes with the responsibility of ensuring it runs optimally. An essential aspect of this is recognizing and addressing the maintenance reminders. This guide provides instructions on resetting the maintenance light for Dacia Sandero, a crucial step after servicing your […]
  • RESET ENGINE OIL LIFE CADILLAC CT6 ON 2014-2017
    Resetting the Engine Oil Life Indicator for Cadillac CT6 (2014-2017) The Cadillac CT6, a hallmark of luxury and engineering precision, requires meticulous care, especially when it comes to its engine oil. One of the essential aspects of maintaining this vehicle is understanding how to reset the engine oil life indicator. This feature ensures that the […]
  • Reset oil life for Hyundai Veloster ON 2014-2017
    Step-by-Step Guide: Resetting Oil Life on Hyundai Veloster (2014-2017) Maintaining the health of your Hyundai Veloster’s engine is crucial. The vehicle’s oil life monitoring system alerts you when it’s time for an oil change. If you have a Hyundai Veloster from the years 2014 through 2017, follow this guide to reset the oil life indicator […]
  • Reset Oil Change Warning Light for Dacia Duster 2009-2015
    Step-by-Step Guide: Resetting the Oil Change Warning Light for Dacia Duster (2009-2015) Do you own a 2009-2015 Dacia Duster? Then, knowing how to reset its oil change warning light is crucial. This light reminds you when to change the engine oil, ensuring peak performance for your vehicle. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the […]
  • Service light reset dashboard BMW X5 and BMW X6
    How do you reset maintenance light, reset service light indicator BMW X5 and BMW X6, year 2000-2013. For reset maintenance light and that can be made manually by use button on car dashboard. Reset oil service light, engine oil life BMW X5 and BMW X6, year 2000-2013 oil reset instructions: Turn the ignition to the […]