what are the syptoms of a bad coolant temp sensor? how do you test if the sensor is bad?

 

Mine made the check engine light come on. This was confirmed by a dealer diagnostic check.

 

your car might buck and shut off for no reason. it senses the temperature improperly and will shut the car down. get a Haynes manual, it shows you how to taste it, you do an electrical resistance check.

 

Higher idle than normal, using alot of fuel, CEL on. Get a haynes manual it will give you the resistance value of the ECT cold and while heating up.

 

k, thanks guys.

 

ya i had mine go out and it was CEL, then today i saw a little green stuff are the sensor and thought i maybe put in too loose. Boy my mistake i ended up tighting it too much, broke it clean in half. Then i cut my finger right nice getting the screw part out. Another 25 bucks to a sensor, I could swear last time it was only like 8 bucks but oh well, this one i put in just good and if it leaks im sure it wont be much.