P0119: Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent
The ECU detects intermittent signal dropouts on the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor circuit. Fault not constantly present, typically due to loose connector, chafed wiring or a sensor failing thermally.
What P0119 means
P0119 is a generic OBD-II powertrain code in the cooling group. In plain English: the computer found an electrical fault in that circuit: an open, short or bad connection, or a failed component.
- Check engine light
- Usually on
- Emissions-related
- Yes — can fail inspection
- Limp mode possible
- Not typical
- Drive cycle to clear
- Required
Get it fixed
Post this code once and get quotes from local mechanics. Free to post.
Makes the repair and parts links below specific to your car. Kept in this browser only.
Symptoms
- Check engine light on
- Cooling fan runs constantly or not at all
- Cabin heater weak or excessively hot
- Possible long warm-up time or hard cold start
Common causes
- 01ECT connector loose or corrodedMost likely
- 02Sensor fails when warmPossible
- 03Wiring chafed near hot engine partsPossible
Can I drive with P0119?
Usually yes, for a short time.
The car will often drive normally, but get it diagnosed soon. Left alone it can raise fuel use and emissions and will fail an OBD inspection. If you notice rough running, warning lights flashing, overheating or a burning smell, stop driving.
Why we rate it moderate
- Turns on the check engine light
- Emissions-related: will usually fail an OBD inspection
- Needs a drive cycle to confirm a repair
Severity is our rule-based rating from the code’s flags in OBDex and the system it affects, not an inspection of your car. If the check engine light is flashing, or you notice overheating, low oil pressure, or brake or steering problems, stop driving and get help.
How to diagnose P0119
- 1
Confirm the code and save freeze-frame data
Read the codes with an OBD-II scan tool and note every code, not just P0119. Save the freeze-frame data (speed, load, temperature when the fault set) before clearing anything; it tells you when the fault happens.
- 2
Fix other faults first
If other codes are stored, start with power-supply, sensor-circuit and communication codes. They can cause this code as a side effect.
- 3
Test the circuit
Inspect the wiring and connector at the ect sensor and ect connector for damage, corrosion or chafing. With a multimeter, check supply voltage, ground and signal against the specifications in the service manual for your vehicle.
- 4
Test the likely causes in order
Start with the most likely cause and work down: ECT connector loose or corroded; sensor fails when warm; wiring chafed near hot engine parts. Test before replacing parts.
- 5
Check for recalls and service bulletins
Look up recalls for your exact vehicle with its VIN, and ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs). Manufacturers sometimes issue software updates or extended warranties for known faults.
- 6
Clear the code and verify the repair
After the repair, clear the code and complete a full drive cycle (cold start, idle, steady highway cruise, deceleration). The code is fixed when the related readiness monitor completes without it returning.
P0119 repair cost estimate
Estimate, not a quote. Labor times are typical ranges for this code from OBDex, and $125/hr is an assumed rate. Shop rates and labor times vary by vehicle and region. Diagnosis time may be billed separately.
- DIY difficulty
- Easy
- Good DIY job?
- Yes, with a scan tool
Basic hand tools; a common first DIY job.
Parts and systems involved
- Ect sensor
- Ect connector
- Ect wiring
P0119 FAQ
What does P0119 mean?
P0119 means “Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Intermittent”. The ECU detects intermittent signal dropouts on the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor circuit. Fault not constantly present, typically due to loose connector, chafed wiring or a sensor failing thermally.
Is P0119 serious? Can I keep driving?
We rate P0119 as moderate severity. Usually yes, for a short time. The car will often drive normally, but get it diagnosed soon. Left alone it can raise fuel use and emissions and will fail an OBD inspection. If you notice rough running, warning lights flashing, overheating or a burning smell, stop driving.
What causes P0119?
The most common causes, from most to least likely: ECT connector loose or corroded; Sensor fails when warm; Wiring chafed near hot engine parts. Test before replacing parts, because several causes can set the same code.
How much does it cost to fix P0119?
Typical labor is about $40–$125 at an assumed $125/hour shop rate, plus parts. That is an estimate, not a quote: labor times and rates vary by vehicle and region, and diagnosis may be billed separately.
Can I fix P0119 myself?
DIY difficulty is easy. Many owners can handle it with a scan tool, a multimeter and basic hand tools. Always confirm the cause before buying parts.
Will P0119 clear itself?
Once the fault is fixed, the check engine light usually goes off by itself after the system passes its self-test over several drive cycles. Clearing the code with a scan tool resets readiness monitors, so an inspection station may turn you away until a full drive cycle is completed.