threw a po128 ??? Doesn't throw code's ,it stores code's . P0128 code does not tell you to replace the sensor either . With every code comes a diagnostic test procedure listed in a factory info. manual .
DTC P0128: Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Below Thermostat Regulating Temperature
The purpose of this diagnostic is to analyze the performance of the thermostat, by using the ECT sensor to determine if the engine coolant will increase at the correct rate, and also meet the calibrated target temperatures under various operating conditions. The ECM uses the start-up ECT and the start-up intake air temperature (IAT) to begin the diagnostic calculation. The air flow into the engine is accumulated, and vehicle speed, distance, and engine run time are also factored in to determine if the ECT does increase normally and reach the calibrated target temperatures.
Diagnostic Aids
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DTC P0128 occurring with insufficient vehicle interior heating is an indication of improper thermostat operation.
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Corrosion in the ECT sensor terminals or the ECT harness connector results in a greater voltage on the ECT sensor signal circuit, which is interpreted by the ECM as a colder ECT.
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A slight to moderate resistance in the ECT sensor signal circuit or low reference circuit will affect this diagnostic. This condition results in a greater voltage on the ECT sensor signal circuit, which is interpreted by the ECM as a colder ECT.
Circuit/System Verification
- Ignition OFF, inspect the cooling system surge tank for the proper coolant level. Refer to Cooling System Leak Testing and Cooling System Draining and Filling .
- Ignition OFF for 8 hours or greater.
- Ignition ON, observe the scan tool ECT Sensor and IAT Sensor parameters. The ECT, IAT and ambient temperatures should be within 15?°C (27?°F) of each other.
Important: A critical analysis of the operation of the thermostat is necessary to properly diagnose this DTC.
- Verify the proper heat range, and the operation of the thermostat. Refer to Thermostat Diagnosis .
- Operate the vehicle within the Conditions for Running the DTC to verify the DTC does not reset. You may also operate the vehicle within the conditions that you observed from the Freeze Frame/Failure Records data.
Circuit/System Testing
- Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the ECT sensor.
- Ignition OFF for 90 seconds, test for less than 5 ohms between the low reference circuit terminal B and ground.
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If greater than the specified range, test the low reference circuit for an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the ECM.
- Ignition ON, verify the scan tool ECT Sensor parameter is colder than -39?°C (-38?°F).
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If warmer than the specified range, test the signal circuit terminal A for a short to ground. If the circuit tests normal, replace the ECM.
- Install a 3A fused jumper wire between the signal circuit terminal A and the low reference circuit terminal B. Verify the scan tool ECT Sensor parameter is warmer than 149?°C (300?°F).
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If colder than the specified range, test the signal circuit for a short to voltage or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the ECM.
- If the circuits test normal, test or replace the ECT sensor.