Dodge Grand Caravan Coolant Temperature Sensor Guide (2007-2019)
Is your Grand Caravan overheating, getting bad gas mileage, or showing a check engine light? Your coolant sensor may be the culprit.
- A bad sensor causes a Check Engine Light, poor fuel economy, and overheating.
- Replacement is a simple, low-cost DIY job for most owners, taking about 30 minutes.
- Location varies by engine: front-passenger side for the 3.6L V6, rear-right for the 3.3L/3.8L V6.
- Quality aftermarket brands like NTK or Delphi are a reliable, cost-effective alternative to the more expensive Mopar part.
Is Your Grand Caravan Acting Up? It Could Be the Coolant Sensor
A failing Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor can cause a surprising number of problems in your 2007-2019 Dodge Grand Caravan. Because the engine's computer depends on this sensor for vital information, a bad signal can make the vehicle run poorly. Ignoring the signs can lead to poor fuel economy, failed emissions tests, and even serious engine damage from overheating.
Symptoms of a Bad Coolant Temperature Sensor
If the ECT sensor is failing, your Grand Caravan will usually let you know. Here are the most common signs:
- Check Engine Light: This is often the first warning. You'll likely get codes like P0117, P0118, or P0128. 🎬 See EricTheCarGuy explain how to diagnose these specific engine codes.
- Engine Overheating: The temperature gauge may climb into the red. This happens because a faulty sensor may not tell the cooling fans to turn on when needed.
- Poor Fuel Economy: If the sensor incorrectly tells the computer the engine is cold, the computer will inject extra fuel. This makes the engine run "rich" and wastes gas.
- Black Smoke from Exhaust: This is another sign of the engine running rich. Unburned fuel is being sent out the tailpipe.
- Hard Starting: The engine may be difficult to start, especially when it's already warm, because the fuel mixture is wrong.
Warning: Do Not Ignore Overheating
If your temperature gauge is in the red or the overheating warning light comes on, pull over as soon as it is safe. Continuing to drive an overheating engine can lead to catastrophic damage, like a warped cylinder head or blown head gasket.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
When shopping for a new aftermarket ECT sensor, you'll find a few quality tiers. For a critical sensor like this, it's best to avoid the cheapest, no-name options, which can be unreliable.
- Premium Aftermarket (e.g., NTK, Delphi, Standard Motor Products): These brands are known for making parts that meet or exceed original equipment (OE) specifications. They offer reliability comparable to the Mopar part but usually at a better price.
- Standard Aftermarket (Replacement/Store Brands): These parts, like the one priced at $20.53, offer a balance of value and quality. They are a good option for a daily driver and are designed to be a direct-fit replacement.
- OEM (Mopar): This is the original part your vehicle came with. It guarantees a perfect fit and performance but comes at the highest cost.
Pro Tip: Check the Connector First
Before you buy a new sensor, take a close look at the wiring connector attached to it. Sometimes the problem isn't the sensor itself, but a corroded, loose, or damaged connector. Cleaning the contacts or repairing the connector might solve your problem for less.
Cost to Replace a Grand Caravan Coolant Sensor
This is an affordable repair, especially if you do it yourself. The part is inexpensive, and labor is minimal.
| Part or Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Mopar) Part | $50 - $85 |
| New Aftermarket Part | $15 - $75 |
| Shop Labor | $77 - $113 |
| Total Professional Replacement | $92 - $198 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the coolant temperature sensor on a 2007-2019 Grand Caravan?
The location depends on your engine. For the 3.6L V6 (2011-2019), the sensor is on the front of the engine on the passenger's side. 🎬 Watch this step-by-step replacement guide for the 3.6L V6 engine. For the older 3.3L and 3.8L V6 engines (2007-2010), it is usually found near the back of the engine on the right side. It's a small sensor with a two-wire electrical connector.
Can I replace this sensor myself?
Yes, this is a great DIY job for most home mechanics. It usually takes less than an hour with basic hand tools, like a deep 19mm socket and a ratchet. You will need to let the engine cool completely, partially drain some coolant, disconnect the wire, unscrew the old sensor, and quickly install the new one to minimize coolant loss.
Are there any recalls for the coolant temperature sensor?
No, as of early 2026, there are no specific NHTSA recalls for the engine coolant temperature sensor on the 2007-2019 Dodge Grand Caravan.
What happens if I don't replace a bad coolant sensor?
You will continue to have problems like poor gas mileage, rough running, and failed emissions tests. The most serious risk is engine overheating if the sensor fails to trigger the cooling fans, which can cause very expensive engine damage.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 5149077AB 68164627AA
Terminal Quantity: 2. Connector Type: Plug In.
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.
- Dodge Grand Caravan:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- Is Your Grand Caravan Acting Up? It Could Be the Coolant Sensor
- Symptoms of a Bad Coolant Temperature Sensor
- Warning: Do Not Ignore Overheating
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
- Pro Tip: Check the Connector First
- Cost to Replace a Grand Caravan Coolant Sensor
- Frequently Asked Questions
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