The ECT (Energy Coolant Temperature Sensor) is another name for the coolant temperature sensor. The temperature of your Volkswagen’s engine is measured by this sensor. The data it collects has an impact on fuel supply, the proper timing of the ignition, and the performance of the engine.
The engine block or cylinder head is usually where the ECT is attached. It’s close to the coolant’s hottest flow and positioned in various areas in the engine bay. At some point, your Volkswagen would need a replacement of its coolant temperature sensor. The sensor is submerged in the coolant to some extent. It communicates the information it has gathered to the engine’s computer. Your onboard computer will communicate any problems to you through the dashboard and digital readings, so beware of any warning lights.
Anatomy of the Coolant Temperature Sensor
A faulty engine coolant temperature sensor can cause a variety of issues. Your engine will become less efficient if the sensor fails. The following is a list of the most typical symptoms you may encounter:
- Gas mileage is poor: When you turn on your automobile, the computer uses data from the coolant temperature sensor. This can result in an engine that runs smoothly. When the engine heats up, the oxygen sensors collect data. If your sensor is malfunctioning, it will not receive the correct information and may tell the fuel pump to inject more than necessary, resulting in poor gas mileage.
- The engine is not performing well: Your engine will no longer function effectively if the sensor is defective. It’s possible that your efforts will backfire and an issue with the engine is often a very expensive one if care is not taken.
- Overheating Engine: If the computer receives the wrong reading, the cooling fans won’t run and your engine will overheat as a result of this. Never drive your Volkswagen if the engine is overheated. Pull off the road and turn off the engine as soon as it overheats. Continuing to drive an overheated car might result in engine damage and even failure.
- Stalls in the Engine: It takes a long time for an engine to warm up, and it needs more fuel to idle The engine can stall if the computer in the engine doesn’t know when to provide more gas.
- Increased Emissions: Your engine will add more fuel if it is receiving the wrong information. As a result, the engine runs rich, resulting in increased emissions.
- Dark Smoke: It will not be consumed in the combustion chamber if your engine receives too much gasoline. It will instead be burnt in the exhaust. As a result, dark-colored exhaust will be emitted from the exhaust.
- The Check-Engine Light will Illuminate: When your vehicle’s computer detects a problem, it will try to notify you. This is commonly accomplished by turning on the engine warning light. The light can be turned on by a variety of factors. When your warning indicator comes on, take your Volkswagen to a reputable technician for an inspection and diagnostic report.
Is it still possible for you to drive your car?
Do not drive your car if your coolant temperature sensor is failing or has failed. You should get it fixed as soon as possible. Overheating might be caused by a defective sensor. This will harm your engine and other components, which will be extremely costly to repair.
Volkswagens are prone to coolant temperature sensor failure. Maintaining the cooling system of the engine will help to extend the component’s life. At 100,000 miles, it is suggested that the sensor be replaced. Failure may occur sooner if you do not keep up with your maintenance program.
Repairing the Sensor Problem at DART Auto
If you believe your Volkswagen’s sensor needs 
to be replaced, the highly qualified auto experts at DART Auto will be pleased to provide you with the highest quality service available. We proudly assist drivers all through the Englewood, Littleton, Centennial, and Denver, CO areas.
For DART Auto, we take pleasure in providing dealership-quality service at a fraction of the cost. With your repair and replacement needs, put your faith in the automotive professionals with nothing less than a decade of experience.
