P0116 Engine temperature sensor reads wrong

By: Diagno editorial team · Updated: 2026-10-15

P0116 means: Engine temperature sensor reads wrong. This sensor tells the engine computer and the gauge how warm the engine is. Drive gently and have the car checked soon. The repair usually costs about €40–180 in Estonia. The most common cause: sensor has failed. Other possible causes: corroded connector or broken wire, low coolant.

What it means

This sensor tells the engine computer and the gauge how warm the engine is. With a wrong reading the radiator fan may run all the time and the car may start poorly. The reading doesn't change the way it should as the engine warms up. The thermostat is often to blame too.

What could be wrong

1. 1Sensor has failed
2. 2Corroded connector or broken wire
3. 3Low coolant

What you can check yourself

With the engine cold, check the coolant level. Check the sensor connector. You can do the simpler checks yourself.

How we fix it

1. We compare the sensor reading with the real temperature
2. We repair the wire or connector
3. We replace the sensor

Standard SAE description: Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Range/Performance