Eagle Talon Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Replacement Guide (1990-1998)
Your Talon's computer relies on this sensor for fuel, timing, and cooling—learn how to choose the right one and avoid common issues.
- Your Talon has two separate temperature sensors in the same location; the two-wire sensor is for the engine computer, and the one-wire is for the dash gauge.
- Aftermarket sensors are known to read inaccurately on DSMs, causing performance issues. OEM or OEM-equivalent brands like NGK/NTK are strongly recommended.
- Primary failure symptoms include running rich (black smoke), poor fuel economy, hard starting, and a Check Engine Light with codes like P0115.
- Before ordering, visually inspect your old sensor's connector, as the shape can differ between model years (e.g., 95-96 vs. 97-98).
Is Your Talon Running Rich or Idling Poorly? It Could Be the ECT Sensor.
A failing Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor can cause a surprising number of problems in the 1990-1998 Eagle Talon. Because the ECU depends on this sensor's reading for so many calculations, a bad signal can make your car run poorly. When the sensor fails, it often sends a false signal to the ECU that the engine is perpetually cold. This forces the computer to inject too much fuel, a condition known as "running rich." This can lead to fouled spark plugs, poor fuel economy, and even long-term damage to your catalytic converter.
Know Your Sensors: The Most Common Mistake
Your Eagle Talon has two separate coolant temperature sensors located next to each other on the thermostat housing. Ordering the wrong one is a frequent error.
- Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor: This has a two-wire electrical connector and sends temperature data to the ECU. This is the sensor that affects engine performance and triggers a Check Engine Light.
- Coolant Temperature Sending Unit: This has a single-wire connector and only operates the temperature gauge on your dashboard. A failure here will not affect how the engine runs.
Before ordering, always visually inspect the sensor you intend to replace to confirm the number of wires and connector shape.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor: A Word of Caution for DSM Owners
While many aftermarket parts offer a great value, the ECT sensor is one area where Eagle Talon (DSM) owners should be cautious. Forum discussions among experienced owners show a strong consensus: cheap, off-brand aftermarket sensors are known to provide inaccurate readings, even when new. A sensor might be off by 15-20°F (around 10°C), which is enough to negatively impact your engine's fuel and timing maps, leading to persistent performance issues.
- Tier 1 (Recommended): OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or brands known to be OEM suppliers like NGK/NTK and Delphi. These parts are engineered to match the exact resistance curve the Talon's ECU expects, ensuring accurate readings.
- Tier 2 (Use with Caution): Brands like Standard Motor Products (SMP), Hella, and Walker Products are generally reliable but may not have the same strict calibration as OEM for this specific application.
- Tier 3 (Value Brands): Lower-cost brands carry a higher risk of inaccurate readings right out of the box for this particular vehicle, potentially causing more diagnostic headaches than they solve.
For a critical sensor like this on a Talon, spending a little extra on an OEM or top-tier aftermarket part is a wise investment to avoid future problems.
Expected Replacement Costs
Replacing the ECT sensor is an inexpensive repair, especially if you do it yourself. The parts are affordable and the labor is minimal.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Sensor | $10 - $55 |
| New OEM Sensor | $40 - $75 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $100 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where is the engine coolant temperature sensor located on a 1990-1998 Eagle Talon?
You can find the ECT sensor screwed into the thermostat housing, which is typically located where the upper radiator hose connects to the engine. There will be two sensors there; the ECT sensor for the engine computer has a two-wire connector.
Can I replace the ECT sensor myself?
Yes, this is a very beginner-friendly job. The sensor simply unscrews like a bolt. The entire process should take less than 30 minutes with basic hand tools.
What happens if I don't replace a bad ECT sensor?
Ignoring a bad sensor will cause you to waste fuel and can lead to more significant problems. Continuously running rich can foul your spark plugs, damage your oxygen sensors, and eventually clog your catalytic converter, which is a much more expensive repair.
My temperature gauge on the dash is acting weird. Is that the ECT sensor?
Not usually. The dashboard gauge is controlled by a separate, single-wire sending unit. If your gauge is erratic but the engine runs fine, you likely need to replace the sender, not the main two-wire ECT sensor.
Are there any recalls for the Eagle Talon ECT sensor?
No, there have been no recalls or specific Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued by Chrysler/Eagle for the engine coolant temperature sensor on the 1990-1998 Talon.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: MD177572 MD182467 MD153999 56027873
Location: Thermostat housing. The primary ECU sensor has a 2-pin connector, while the gauge sender has a 1-pin connector. Connector shapes may vary by year, with some being oval and others being square.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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