What is a thermostatic sensor? What are the symptoms?
What is Thermostatic vacuum sensor?
Modern engines employ a complex system that includes sensors, computers, and other components to reduce vehicle emission. With the introduction of EGR in 1966, vehicle emission systems were mechanically controlled via a series of vacuum-operated, monitored components. One such part is the thermostatic sensor. This reduces harmful gas emissions and regulates the engine’s temperature.
The thermostatic sensor, which is located in front of an intake manifold, is situated in the water pass line to monitor engine coolant temperatures. It acts as a safety device to prevent the engine overheating. Unburned exhaust gases are resent to it via the EGR. The thermostatic vacuum sensor is a traffic officer that directs vacuum to certain engine components. It may be useful in adjusting the idle speed by delaying operation of EGR valves until they reach a specific temperature.
Winter is more difficult than normal. It takes several minutes to get the engine to the ideal temperature. To create a vacuum, the engine must be running at its best. However, this is impossible when it is cold. Vacuum is essential for all components of your car, including the distributor, EGR, cruise control, heater, and even the thermostat. This is the role of the thermostatic vacuum sensor, located in the intake manifold. The temperature of the coolant is measured by this sensor to check if the correct operating temperature has been achieved. It can also open the parts it controls and know when to turn vacuum on or off.
This component is present in vehicles built before computer-controlled emission system. This component is typically found in vehicles built before 2010. However, you can ask your mechanic to determine if it’s in your vehicle.
Symptoms of Thermostatic Pressure Sensor Failure
The thermostatic vacuum sensor is built to last for the entire life of your vehicle. This part is susceptible to damage or failure from high heat, corrosion, dirt, or other factors. It will display warning signs if it fails. The most common symptoms include:
Engine Malfunction Lamp
The thermostatic vacuum sensor in vehicles equipped with electronic control modules is monitored by an on-board computer (ECM/ECU/PCM). But, it doesn’t necessarily control the EGR system. The ECM’s monitoring serves to notify the driver when the sensor has gone off-line. The fault code is stored in the PCM’s RAM and the check engine light activates to warn the driver.
If the check engine light is on, you should take it seriously. Serious engine damage could occur if it isn’t addressed promptly. The thermostatic vacuum sensor can fail, causing the engine to heat up, burn the head gasket, and causing internal engine damage.
Reduced engine performance
Poor engine performance is the most important factor in determining whether the thermostatic vacuum sensors is defective. It is caused by engine components failing to reach the right operating temperature or being subject to excessive heat. This is especially true if you are in heavy traffic or on hot days. Failing to operate engine components properly can trigger multiple fault codes, causing the check engine light (or other indicators) to illuminate.
Engine Overheating
A faulty thermostatic vacuum sensor could be the reason why your engine is heating up. Low radiator coolant levels can cause engine overheating, as well as coolant leaks and faulty water pumps. Whatever the reason, the driver should closely monitor any excessive heat and have it repaired as soon possible.
