Chrysler Aspen Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Guide (2007-2009)
Everything a 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen owner needs to know about a failing engine coolant temperature sensor and how to choose the right replacement.
- Symptoms include Check Engine Light (P0117, P0118), poor MPG, black smoke, and overheating.
- Location differs by engine: it's easier to access on the 4.7L V8 (front of intake manifold) than the 5.7L HEMI (under the A/C compressor).
- Ignoring the problem can lead to more expensive repairs, including engine damage from overheating.
- For reliability, choose an OEM (Mopar) or a premium aftermarket brand like Delphi, NGK, or Standard Ignition.
Is your Aspen's temperature gauge acting up?
A faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor can cause more than just a wrong reading on your dashboard. Since this sensor provides critical data to your Aspen's engine computer, a bad signal can lead to poor performance, bad fuel economy, and even engine damage if ignored. This guide will walk you through the symptoms, how to choose the best replacement part for your 4.7L or 5.7L V8, and what to expect for costs.
Critical Symptoms of a Bad ECT Sensor
- Check Engine Light: The most common sign. You'll likely see codes like P0117 (circuit low) or P0118 (circuit high).
- Poor Fuel Economy: If the sensor wrongly tells the computer the engine is cold, the computer will enrich the fuel mixture, wasting gas.
- Black Smoke from Exhaust: A very rich fuel mixture may not burn completely, leading to black smoke from the tailpipe.
- Engine Overheating: If the sensor fails to report a high temperature, the cooling fans may not turn on when needed, causing the engine to overheat.
- Rough Idle: An incorrect fuel mixture can cause the engine to shake, vibrate, or run poorly at idle.
- Hard Starting: When the engine is cold, the computer relies on the ECT sensor for the correct starting fuel mixture. A bad signal can make the engine difficult to start.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
With many brands available, picking the right one can be confusing. Not all aftermarket parts are created equal. For a critical sensor like this, quality matters. Here’s a breakdown of brand tiers to help you decide.
- Premium Aftermarket (e.g., Delphi, NGK, Standard Ignition): These brands are often original equipment suppliers to many car manufacturers. They offer high-quality parts that are engineered to meet or exceed OEM specifications. They are a reliable choice for a long-lasting repair without the full OEM price tag.
- OEM-Equivalent (e.g., Mopar, Dorman): Mopar is the original factory part and guarantees a perfect fit and function. Dorman is a well-regarded aftermarket brand that specializes in creating direct replacements for OE parts, often addressing known failure points in their designs.
- Standard Aftermarket (e.g., Beck Arnley, Walker Products, Four Seasons): These are solid, reputable brands that offer a good balance of quality and price. They are a dependable choice for most repairs.
- Economy Brands (e.g., Global Parts, True Tech): These brands offer the lowest price point. While budget-friendly, their long-term durability and the precision of their temperature readings may not match the higher-tiered brands. They can be a solution for a tight budget, but a premium sensor is often worth the small extra cost for peace of mind.
A Mechanic's Advice
For a part this critical and inexpensive, it's wise to stick with an OEM or Premium Aftermarket brand. The labor to replace a failed economy sensor a second time will quickly erase any initial savings. Many professional mechanics prefer brands like Mopar, Delphi, or Standard Ignition for their reliability.
Cost to Replace Chrysler Aspen ECT Sensor
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Mopar) | $45 - $120 |
| New Aftermarket | $13 - $75 |
| Shop Labor | $75 - $150 |
Cost estimates are approximate and can vary based on location and specific repair shop rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the ECT sensor located on a 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen?
The location depends on your engine. On the 4.7L V8, the sensor is located near the front of the intake manifold. On the 5.7L HEMI V8, it is installed into the front of the cylinder block, underneath the air conditioning compressor, which makes it more difficult to access.
Is this a difficult part to replace myself?
For the 4.7L V8, it is a relatively easy DIY job requiring basic tools and partial draining of the coolant. For the 5.7L HEMI V8, the job is more difficult because the A/C compressor must be unbolted and moved to gain access, though the A/C lines do not need to be disconnected. This may be a job best left to a professional if you are not comfortable with that procedure.
Are there any recalls for the Chrysler Aspen ECT sensor?
No, there are no specific recalls for the engine coolant temperature sensor on the 2007-2009 Chrysler Aspen. However, a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) exists for some Chrysler vehicles for a software update to the Powertrain Control Module that addresses issues with radiator coolant temperature sensor performance, among other codes. If you replace the sensor and still have issues, a PCM software update may be needed.
What happens if I don't replace a bad ECT sensor?
Ignoring a bad ECT sensor can lead to serious problems. Persistently running a rich fuel mixture can damage your catalytic converter over time. More critically, if the sensor fails to report an overheating condition, the cooling fans won't activate, potentially leading to severe engine damage from overheating.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 5149077AB 56028364AA
2-pin, threaded sensor that measures resistance based on coolant temperature.
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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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