Bad coolant temperature sensor could cause car not start. Check the below mentioned symptoms if your car fails to start despite having a good coolant temperature sensor. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is best to have your car checked by a mechanic to determine the root cause.
What is a Bad Coolant Temperature Sensor?
A bad coolant temperature sensor is most likely the reason your car will not start. This sensor measures the coolant temperature and sends a signal to the engine control unit (ECU) to activate the starter. When the sensor goes bad, it can cause the ECU to think the engine is too cold, which can ultimately cause the car not to start. In most cases, a bad coolant temperature sensor will show up as an error code on your car’s diagnostic system. If you’re unable to start your car and suspect that a bad coolant temperature sensor is responsible, make sure to have your vehicle checked out by a mechanic.
Symptoms of a Bad Coolant Temperature Sensor
A bad coolant temperature sensor can cause a car not to start. Here are some symptoms to watch for:
Cars that don’t start may have low oil pressure.
Low oil pressure can be caused by a bad coolant temperature sensor. If the sensor isn’t working properly, it won’t send accurate information to the engine computer, which will cause the car to lose oil pressure.
How to Test for a Bad Coolant Temperature Sensor
If your car will not start, the first thing you should do is check the coolant temperature sensor. A bad coolant temperature sensor can cause your car to not start. To test for a bad coolant temperature sensor, you’ll need to remove the thermostat and connect a temperature probe to it. Then, connect the probe to the engine block. If the engine block temperature is too low, then the sensor is likely bad and needs to be replaced.
Fixing a Bad Coolant Temperature Sensor
If your car will not start, there is a good chance that the bad coolant temperature sensor is the culprit. This sensor monitors the coolant temperature and if it become too high, the car will not start. In most cases, this sensor is easy to replace and can be done in just a few minutes.
First, remove the air filter. Next, unscrew the coolant hose from the water pump. Finally, remove the coolant temperature sensor by unscrewing it from its mount. Once it is free, clean all of the contaminants off of it with a damp cloth. Replace the sensor and screw it back into place.