Hi. I have a 1996 Volvo 850 with a faulty engine coolant temp sensor. Is the installation of this something I can do myself, or do I need a mechanic? Is there anywhere online I can find a diagram or directions for this?

 

Yes, you can do it yourself easily.

The procedure is the same as changing the thermostat (I would do this at the same time) as the ECt sensor is underneath it.

 

Sounds good. Where can I find adiagram or a guide that shows how to install the ECT and thermostat?

 

Here you go:

http://volvospeed.com/Repair/thermect.php

 

That is a huge help. Thanks!

 

No problem. Be careful taking the torx screws out. They are very easy to strip. Make sure you use a good torx bit that is exactly the right size. When I did mine, I did not put the torx screws back in. I went to NAPA and bought regular hex bolts to put in.

 

And I would second doing that JimKW.

If it improvesthe situation I always replace the Torx screws too.

 

Either the NAPA bolts of you can go to the dealer and get the new upgraded steel screws. They are .89 cents per at the dealer.

 

Dealer ones are still torx though.

 

Here's a good nap-time reading[8D]:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISO_10664


JPN

 

I can vouch for what everyone else here has said, as I replaced the same sensor about 3 months ago. It is very easy to replace, but it is also very easy to strip out the torx bolts, just be careful and you will be fine.

Glenn

 

I'll be careful with the torx screws, then. Stupid question: do I need to disconnect the battery before installing the ECT?
Thanks.

 

I didn't.

 

Battery can stay connected but make sure that the ignition switch is off.


JPN

 

Yes, I also left the battery connected but made sure the ignition was off. The connecter might be tough to separate, as it has been together through thousands of heat cycles. Just take your time and work it loose. A very small flat blade screwdriver might help. Just curious, are you getting the infamous 1-2-3 c ode and check engine light?

 

I too have the same problem and it does seem easy to do. But why would I have to drain all the coolant? BTW, Volvo wants $220 + tax to do this job.

 

I may need to replace this part too. My radiator fan is not coming on and I am still trying to diagnose whether it is the ECT sensor or the fan relay or the fan itself. In looking for this part at AutoZone, their information describes it as being in a different location

"Under hood, center, front engine area, mounted on lower front passenger side of engine."

Which would be the one I need to replace? I can see something in that location that resembles the one at the thermostat housing. It is the same as the one offered for auction here http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...AQ:MOTORS:1123

Thanks,

Tracy

 

I need this replaced too I take it to a garge that specializes in Volvos and was trying to get a decent idea of how much it would cost

 

Well, two reasons I can think of. One is just profit as they make more if they talk you into a coolant flush. The other is that they may think that if you're having a sensor replaced it's just good insurance to have fresh fluid in the cooling system and most people aren't nearly as "religious" about flushing out their cooling systems as they are about changing oil Most cooling systems are overdue for a change.

 

I had it done at Flickenger's Auto Service on 30 for $188 and they did the thermostat for me too. If you've never taken your Volvo there you should they do great work and specialize in Volvos