Code P0125, where is the (ECT) sensor located?

JERSEYRANCHER30

MEMBER
2008 KIA SPECTRA
2.0L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
158,000 MILES

(ECT) sensor Is what is coming up when I looked up the code. My question is, where is this sensor located?

Tuesday, January 24th, 2023 AT 2:56 PM

5 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,724 POSTS

Hi,

The code is indicated as an ECT sensor issue. However, that is usually not the cause. To be more specific, the code deals with the engine not reaching operating temperature quickly enough which then becomes an emissions issue.

I attached a pic below showing the sensor/location. Do me a favor. Before arbitrarily replacing the sensor, pay attention to how long it takes for the engine to reach operating temperature or if it actually does reach operating temperature.

If you find it doesn't fully warm up or takes longer than approximately 5 to 10 minutes. I have a feeling the sensor isn't the issue, but instead, the coolant thermostat is stuck partially or fully open extending the warm-up time.

Let me know your thoughts.

Take care,

joe

See pic below.

Image (Click to make bigger)

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Tuesday, January 24th, 2023 AT 3:44 PM

JERSEYRANCHER30

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Thank you, Joe. I'll definitely look into the thermostat. I bought the car used and I did take notice that the radiator hoses were collapsed so I replaced them and I didn't think about checking the thermostat or replacing it.

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Tuesday, January 24th, 2023 AT 9:34 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,724 POSTS

You are very welcome. That code can trick you. LOL Let me know what you find as far as reaching operating temp and if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

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Wednesday, January 25th, 2023 AT 6:44 PM

JERSEYRANCHER30

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Yes, it definitely got me stumped that's why I asked about it take roughly 15 minutes to warm up. Also, before I started it, I did check to see if I had coolant in the overfill and the radiator both is full, I took notice while I drive the temperature is normal then stopping for a minute it slowly creeps up then I take off back to normal. A couple of people said it has a bad head gasket, but I don't have (chocolate milk oil) because at first that's what I thought so I just changed the oil and filter. I'm going to take your advice and just change the thermostat then go from there. I'll keep you updated.

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Wednesday, January 25th, 2023 AT 7:00 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,724 POSTS

Hi,

I feel that is a good place to start. Let me know how things turn out or if you have other questions.

I don't know if you need them, but I attached the directions below specific to this vehicle for replacing it.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.

Images (Click to make bigger)