Radiator stopped working and engine overheated, what are the effects on temperature sensor?

1997 HONDA ACCORD
110,000 MILES • 2.3L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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BACONBURG
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Car overheated lost all water. Radiator has been replaced, but it is idling rough.

If the temperature sensor was extremely heat stressed would that affect its operating capabilities, thus creating an issue with the computer controlling the timing?

Could temperature sensor be damaged, but not set P0117 code?

Will an overheated engine ruin the spark plugs?

Thank you,

Dan B.
Sep 21, 2021 at 10:38 AM
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SQM
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 6,383 POSTS
Hello,

Is the engine overheating now?
Are you getting any codes for the rough idling?

As for the coolant temperature sensor, it could have its internal calibration off. You can test the sensor. One test you can do is check the resistance between the 2 pins on the sensor. I have attached the chart that shows the ideal resistance at a given temperature.

You could have a bad sensor without showing and codes.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/symptoms-of-a-bad-coolant-temperature-sensor

Please let me know of any questions.
Thank you.
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Sep 21, 2021 at 10:59 AM
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BACONBURG
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Is the engine overheating now? No.

Are you getting any codes for the rough idling? No.
Sep 21, 2021 at 1:20 PM
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SQM
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
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Okay. Then we need to focus on the ECT sensor. Please run through the testing above and we can go from there.

Let me know what you find with the coolant temperature sensor.

Thanks
Sep 21, 2021 at 1:27 PM
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