What is a cylinder temperature sensor? What are the signs of a CHT sensor malfunction? How do you detect a faulty cylinder head temperature sensor ?….?
What is the Cylinder Head temperature Sensor?
Many modern cars incorporate amazing technology that makes them safer to drive and easier to maintain. The sensor that measures cylinder head temperatures (CHT), which is an essential component of the engine management software, is also an important component.
Temperature is a key factor in the engine’s performance and efficiency. The engine control module (PCM), or powertrain control module, is the engine’s brain. It controls the temperature to ensure that the engine runs smoothly. To ensure safety and maximum efficiency, the PCM will need to use more cooling and fuel to warm the radiator if the engine has stopped running. The most crucial component that allows the PCM monitor engine temperature is the temperature sensor at the cylinder head.
CHT sensor replaces one of the bolts on the cylinder head. The CHT sensor is designed to measure the temperature in the cylinder head. This 2-wire sensor regulates the metal temperature and is used for determining the engine’s heat. It can detect temperatures as low as -40°C (-40° Fahrenheit) and as high as 260°C (500° Fahrenheit). The temperature resistance of the sensor is changed by temperature. As temperature increases, the resistance decreases and the voltage signal to PCM drops.
CHT sensors are sometimes used in engine applications. CHT sensors provide more precise information that the ECT sensor because they take their readings directly form the engine’s metallic structure. The sensor’s information is used by PCM/ECM for fuel delivery and ignition timing calculations.
What are the symptoms of a Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor Problem?
It is crucial to monitor the temperature of the cylinder heads for accurate engine calculations. A failure of the CHT sensor can result in fuel inefficiency or overheating.
Some symptoms can be triggered by a faulty temperature sensor in the cylinder head. These are the most common symptoms of a malfunction:
- Longer cranking time for starting your vehicle
- – Reduction in fuel economy
- – No power during acceleration
- Vibration during acceleration
- – How to stop problems
- – Air conditioner problems
- Radiator fans that work non-stop, or at all
- – Illumination at the check engine lights
- – Engine entering fail-safe mode
Hard Engine Running
Long cranking times are the most obvious sign of a faulty temperature sensor in cylinder heads. Long cranking times are a sign that the sensor to your PCM is not working properly. This can lead to engine running hard. You should have your cylinder head temperature sensor checked if the vehicle is not starting as fast as it normally does.
Engine Performance Problems
Engine calculations depend on the signal that is sent by the temperature sensor at the cylinder head. It can also cause engine problems if it is not working properly. Engine power can be reduced during acceleration. You may also notice an increase in fuel consumption. Although performance problems are not always apparent at first, they will become more severe over time. Engine misfires or stalling can occur, and the engine might switch to failsafe mode.
On – Engine Malfunction Light
The PCM monitors the sensors constantly to ensure that they play an important role in engine management. The check engine light will always turn on if there is a problem with the sensor. The fault light may come on for many reasons. To diagnose and repair the problem, it is important to check the PCM’s internal memory for the fault codes.
