P0116 Code: Honda CR-V (2017-2023) - Causes, Symptoms & Fixes

No recalls found in NHTSA database.

According to the provided NHTSA data, there are no owner complaints for P0116 on the 2017-2023 Honda CR-V.

CODE MEANING AND SEVERITY

• What P0116 means: P0116 is the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor (ECT) Circuit Range/Performance fault. It indicates the ECT sensor reading is out of the PCM’s expected range or the sensor input is not performing correctly. The PCM uses the ECT reading to adjust fuel delivery, ignition timing, and other engine controls.
• How it can affect the vehicle: When the ECT reading is out of range, the engine may run too rich or too lean, causing poor throttle response, rough idle, and reduced fuel economy. If the PCM suspects the reading is unreliable, it may trigger a MIL (check engine light) and store the DTC. In some scenarios, an incorrect reading can contribute to overheating concerns if the actual coolant temperature is misrepresented or if the cooling system is not functioning properly.
• Severity on a CR-V: Not usually an immediate safety hazard by itself, but it can degrade drivability and fuel economy. If the actual engine temperature is abnormal due to a cooling system fault, that is a separate safety concern. Do not ignore repeated P0116 codes, especially if accompanied by rising engine temperature or coolant leaks.

COMMON CAUSES ON HONDA CR-V

• Faulty ECT sensor: The sensor itself has degrades or a poor signal.
• Damaged or corroded wiring/connector: Wiring harness or the connector to the ECT sensor is damaged, loose, or corroded.
• Bad thermostat or cooling system issues: A thermostat stuck open/closed or impaired coolant flow can cause the sensor reading to consistently appear out of range or mismatch actual temperature.
• Coolant level or air in the cooling system: Low coolant or air pockets can create misleading readings.
• ECU/PCM or grounding issues: Rare, but PCM input conditioning or ground faults can mimic sensor range problems.
• Incorrect or contaminated coolant: Using the wrong type or contaminated coolant can affect readings and sensor performance.
• Related sensor inputs or shared circuits: Issues elsewhere in the cooling/engine management circuit can produce similar symptom patterns.

SYMPTOMS

• Check Engine Light is on (MIL) with code P0116.
• Engine may run rough, hard start, or stumble on cold starts or after warmup.
• Fluctuating or abnormal engine temperature readings on the instrument cluster (gauge may not match actual coolant temperature).
• Poor acceleration or reduced power, especially under load.
• Decreased fuel economy.
• In some cases, the engine may feel like it’s running rich or lean.
• Rarely, overheating indicator if actual cooling problem exists alongside the sensor fault.

DIAGNOSTIC STEPS

Note: Work safely and with the engine cool where appropriate. Use a reliable OBD-II scan tool and, when possible, live data.

• Step 1: Confirm codes and data

  • Retrieve DTC P0116 and note any related codes (P0115, P0117, P0118, P0128, etc.).
  • Check freeze frame data for the recorded engine temperature and sensor readings.

• Step 2: Visual inspection

  • Locate the ECT sensor (typically near the thermostat housing or adjacent to the engine block on many Honda engines).
  • Inspect the sensor and its connector for corrosion, damaged wires, or loose fits.
  • Check the wiring harness for hard starts, fraying, or insulation damage. Wiggle the connector while observing live data to see if readings fluctuate.

• Step 3: Check cooling system basics

  • Verify coolant level is correct and coolant type matches Honda spec.
  • Look for leaks, evidence of mixing coolant types, or air pockets in the cooling system.
  • Confirm the thermostat is functioning: engine should warm up to operating temperature and coolant should flow properly (feels warm at the radiator hose when warm; radiator hose should become hot in normal operation).

• Step 4: Compare sensor reading to actual temperature

  • With engine at normal operating temperature, compare the ECT sensor reading (via live data) to the actual coolant temperature measured with an infrared thermometer at the thermostat housing or at the radiator neck. Large disparities suggest sensor or wiring issues.
  • If readings are consistently out of range, suspect the ECT sensor or its wiring rather than the cooling system.

• Step 5: Test the sensor and circuit

  • Use a multimeter to test the ECT sensor resistance at room temperature and after the engine reaches operating temperature (per Honda service data for the exact resistance range). If the resistance does not change with temperature as expected, the sensor is faulty.
  • Inspect and test the sensor grounding and the two-wire/three-wire circuit for continuity and shorts to ground or power.
  • If you have access to a known-good sensor, swap in a replacement to confirm the fault.

• Step 6: Rule out related components

  • If the ECT sensor and wiring test good, consider thermostat fault or cooling system flow issues as potential root causes.
  • Re-check for related diagnostic codes that may point to the PCM or other sensor inputs.

• Step 7: Clear codes and test drive

  • After performing repairs, clear the PCM codes, then drive under normal conditions and monitor for reoccurrence. Re-scanner after a short drive to confirm the code does not return.

RELATED CODES

• P0115: Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Malfunction (general circuit issue or sensor failure).
• P0117: Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low Input (sensor reading too cold).
• P0118: Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High Input (sensor reading too hot or signal out of range).
• P0128: Coolant Thermostat Rationality / Thermostat Control (related to cooling system temperature management; can be connected to symptoms of ECT issues if thermostat behavior affects readings).

REPAIR OPTIONS AND COSTS (2025 PRICES)

Prices vary by region, shop, and whether you choose OEM vs aftermarket parts. The ranges below are typical for independent shops and approximate dealer premiums.

• ECT sensor replacement

  • Parts: $10–$60
  • Labor: 0.3–1.0 hours
  • Estimated total: $70–$150 (often around $100–$170 at many shops)
  • Notes: If wiring is intact, this is usually the simplest fix.

• Thermostat replacement (often done if thermostat issue is suspected or if cooling flow is abnormal)

  • Parts: $15–$50
  • Labor: 1.0–2.0 hours
  • Estimated total: $150–$350
  • Notes: Some CR-Vs have the thermostat integrated with the housing, which can affect labor time and parts cost.

• Coolant service (flush/refill or top-off after sensor work)

  • Parts: coolant as needed, $10–$30
  • Labor: 0.5–1.0 hours
  • Estimated total: $60–$180
  • Notes: Use Honda-approved coolant; proper bleeding of air in the cooling system is important.

• Wiring or connector repair

  • Parts: often minimal (new connector or harness segment)
  • Labor: 0.5–1.5 hours
  • Estimated total: $100–$300
  • Notes: If wiring insulation is damaged or connectors are corroded, repair may be more involved.

• PCM/ECU issues or reflash

  • Parts: usually not required; software flash if available
  • Labor: 0.5–1.5 hours
  • Estimated total: $100–$350
  • Notes: Rare; dealer or specialized shop may be needed.

• Total cost guidance

  • If the problem is isolated to the ECT sensor, most CR-V owners see a total repair cost around $100–$180.
  • If the thermostat or cooling system is involved, total costs commonly range from $150–$350.
  • In cases where multiple components are affected or wiring repairs are needed, costs can go higher, potentially $400–$600 or more.

DIY VS PROFESSIONAL

• DIY considerations

  • Suitable for: ECT sensor replacement, basic wiring inspection, checking coolant level and condition, basic diagnostic checks with scanner.
  • Pros: Lower cost, quick resolution for simple sensor issues, good learning experience.
  • Cons: Risk of incorrect cooling system reassembly, air pockets leading to overheating, potential coolant spills, and more difficult diagnostics if the fault is in wiring or the thermostat.
  • Skills/tools needed: Basic hand tools, a multimeter, access to service data for your exact year/model, and a method to properly bleed the cooling system if you replace coolant-related components.

• Professional considerations

  • Suitable for: Any suspected thermostat fault, wiring harness issues, PCM-related concerns, persistent P0116 after sensor replacement, or if overheating symptoms appear.
  • Pros: Proper diagnosis with live data, correct bleeding of cooling system, warranty on work, and OEM part availability.
  • Cons: Higher labor cost than DIY.

• Quick decision guide

  • If you can confidently test the ECT sensor, inspect wiring, and perform a sensor replacement with coolant handling, DIY is reasonable.
  • If you suspect thermostat, air in cooling system, leaks, or wiring harness faults beyond simple sensor replacement, a professional diagnosis is recommended.

PREVENTION

• Use the correct Honda-approved coolant and maintain the coolant level within the specified range.
• Periodically inspect the cooling system for leaks, hose wear, and radiator cap condition.
• Avoid mixing different coolant types; use the recommended mix and concentration.
• Schedule cooling system maintenance at manufacturer-recommended intervals, including coolant flushes when specified.
• When installing electrical components, ensure connectors are clean, dry, and properly seated; protect wiring from heat and engine movement.
• If you notice frequent P0116 codes, consider a routine check of the ECT sensor and its wiring as part of preventive maintenance.

Notes on data limitations

• The provided data indicates no recalls found for this issue on the 2017-2023 Honda CR-V, and no NHTSA owner complaints in the dataset for P0116. This guide uses general automotive knowledge to describe how P0116 typically presents and is diagnosed on Honda CR-Vs, but actual vehicle behavior can vary. Always refer to OEM service data for exact specifications and updated repair protocols. If a recall or TSB related to the ECT circuit appears in future data, it could alter the recommended repair approach.