How does the coolant temperature sensor work?

The coolant temperature sensor isthe mechanism that is created to make the temperature of this fluid DC voltage. Thanks to his information, it is possible to correct the main parameters that control the engine, depending on what its thermal state is.

The coolant temperature sensor isunit, powered by the operating current, which comes from a stabilized source control unit. Its output voltage can be adjusted. It depends on the magnitude of the ambient temperature. This is how the temperature sensor works. If it increases, then the output voltage of the sensor becomes larger.

It is worth telling how the sensor is designedcoolant temperature. It consists of a metal case, which has a cylindrical cap. Inside it is a sensitive element. Also, the tail plastic part with a two-contact plug is included in its package.

How to mount and install such a thing ascoolant sensor? This mechanism is installed on the engine, as a rule, on the case of the block thermostat of the engine cylinders. And the air temperature sensor is placed on the receiver of the engine intake pipe. This mechanism is screwed into the threaded bore, after which, using a sealant, seal the connection. The sensor is connected to the wiring harness thanks to a two-pronged socket with a latch. It should be noted that these mechanisms are polarized according to the wiring scheme, that is, the break condition is equivalent to the reverse switching of the sensor.

There are several types of this mechanism.The most common type is the coolant sensor - a thermistor. The resistance of such a mechanism changes if the temperature of the liquid also changes. Most often these are thermistors with a negative temperature coefficient. In them, the resistance decreases with increasing temperature and, conversely, it becomes greater if the engine is cold. When it warms up - the resistance drops, when its temperature reaches a minimum - work begins to be performed.

Not every coolant temperature sensorhas one function. Sometimes mechanisms with a double function are used. That is, when the temperature reaches a certain level, the electronic control unit changes the voltage value so that the readings acquire a higher resolution.

On older models of cars use otheraggregates. Basically they have a switch with two positions. These sensors can only open or close at a specific temperature. In addition, they have a direct connection to the relay in order to be able to turn off and turn on the cooling fan. Or, it sends a signal to the dashboard, and then the lamp starts to light, indicating that a signal has been received. Such sensors (which are single-wire) send a signal to the measuring device, which is located on the instrument panel.