Hi all,

Please bear in mind that I'm a noob at this. I've been having some engine heating/cooling issues with my 2000 Accord V6. The temperature meter has gone between the middle and near or on the red when stopped. It remains in the middle when moving. This past Sunday, the car threw a check engine light which I had Autozone read. The code given was:

P0116 - Seonsor 1 range/performance
Probable cases - (1) open or short circuit condition, (2) poor electrical connection, or (3) faulty ECT

I have also checked the coolant reservoir and it is still on MAX. Is it safe to drive the car like this? What other diagnostics should I do before I start replacing parts?

 

History of the car:

Bought brand new in 2000. I don't have any mods on the car. I just wanted to start off by saying that I have not done much technical work on the car except for brake/rotor changes and oil changes. But I have previously had my car serviced for:

1. Transmission replacement (Honda dealer in 2005)
2. Timing belt and water pump replacement (Honda dealer in 2010)
3. Upper control arms (front) and engine/transmission mounts (independent shop in 2009)

The problem is that the car has been "overheating" for the past few weeks now. Prior to this, there have been similar random episodes.

 

ok first thing, the coolant reservoir does not give you an accurate estimate of the level of coolant. when the car is cold, open the radiator and see if there is fluid above the top fins of the radiator. if not then fill it up to the top and turn the car on but leave the cap off and keep filling as the engine runs until it is full. also, double check the water pump. it is possible that they may have done an improper install but most likely they just did not fill the fluid enough or get the air out of the system.

 

Ok, I refilled my radiator with distilled water only and it seems to have alleviated the problem. The CEL is not on anymore, and there is no temperature gauge jumping. I haven't noticed the fan coming on after the car has been driven for 10 miles like it used to after I turn off the car. It seems like it doesn't even turn on now during driving.

Is a coolant flush and refill required at this point?
How much street/highway driving, in miles or time, does it take for the fan to come on?

 

it is not required but recommended. but i recommend using 50/50 coolant fluid which you can find at any auto parts store or even walmart.

the fan comes on when the temperature of the car reaches a certain point. not based on run time or mileage. it will automatically turn on intermittently

 

If the dealer changed the timing belt and water pump they should have changed the coolant. After you car is running for at least 15 mins. watch to see if fan comes on. If not then that opens up a new discussion.

 

First, make sure you're putting in 50/50. If you don't want to mix it urself then just buy the 50/50. It's very important to have that for longterm reasons as water will corrode and coolant helps prevent corrosion and has a lower boiling point.
Second, find the leak.

 

It definitely does not come on, even after 15 minutes of driving.

 

Can I use any 50/50 or do I have to use Honda's Type 2 coolant? I was just thinking about going to Autozone or something and picking up Peak 50/50.

 

Any 50/50 will do.

If you're gonna mix it yourself, you're right about using distilled water as you don't want any minerals in your coolant.