Dodge Charger Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor: 2012-2023 Replacement Guide
Fix common engine problems by understanding, diagnosing, and replacing this critical sensor on your 2012-2023 Dodge Charger.
- A faulty ECT sensor can cause poor fuel economy, rough idle, and overheating.
- The sensor's location is different for V6 and V8 engines, so verify your engine type before starting.
- This is a simple, low-cost DIY repair that can be done in under an hour with basic tools.
- A quality aftermarket sensor from a reputable brand offers the same performance as OEM for less money.
Signs of a Failing Coolant Temperature Sensor
When the ECT sensor starts to fail, it sends bad information to your Charger's computer. This can cause a range of problems that might seem unrelated. If you notice any of these signs, your ECT sensor could be the culprit.
- Check Engine Light: This is often the first sign. The computer will store a trouble code, most commonly P0117 (sensor circuit low) or P0118 (sensor circuit high).
- Poor Fuel Economy: If the sensor wrongly tells the computer the engine is cold, the computer will inject too much fuel, wasting gas.
- Black Smoke from Exhaust: A rich fuel mixture from a bad sensor reading can result in unburned fuel burning in the exhaust, creating black smoke.
- Engine Overheating or Running Too Cool: A faulty sensor might not trigger the cooling fans when needed, leading to overheating. Conversely, it might make the fans run constantly, preventing the engine from reaching its ideal operating temperature.
- Rough Idle: An incorrect fuel mixture can cause the engine to idle poorly, shake, or vibrate.
- Inaccurate Temperature Gauge: The gauge on your dashboard might read incorrectly, stay on cold, or jump to hot suddenly.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor
You don't have to buy the most expensive part to fix your Charger, but quality matters. Aftermarket sensors for this part generally fall into a few tiers.
| Brand Tier | Brands | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| OEM / Premium Aftermarket | Mopar, Delphi, Standard Motor Products (SMP) | Mopar is the original factory part. Delphi is known for its OE heritage and quality. SMP is a long-standing brand focused on meeting or exceeding OEM specifications. These are your best bet for reliability and a perfect fit. |
| Quality Aftermarket | Dorman, Walker Products, Holstein | These brands are well-known in the aftermarket. They offer a good balance of price and quality and are a reliable choice for most repairs. Dorman is a very common replacement part brand. |
| Value-Oriented | Beck Arnley, Crown Automotive, Global Parts | These brands provide a functional replacement at a lower cost. They can be a good option for budget-conscious repairs, but may not have the same longevity as premium brands. |
Pro Tip: OEM vs. Aftermarket
For a simple and inexpensive sensor like the ECT, a quality aftermarket part from a brand like Delphi or Standard Motor Products will perform just as well as the OEM Mopar part for a fraction of the price. The key is to avoid the cheapest, no-name options, which can fail prematurely.
DIY Replacement Guide
Replacing the ECT sensor is a straightforward job for most DIY mechanics. The location is the main difference between engine types.
Sensor Location:
- For 3.6L V6 Engines: The sensor is located on the rear of the driver's side cylinder head. It can be tricky to reach but is accessible.
- For 5.7L & 6.4L V8 HEMI Engines: The sensor is on the front of the engine, on the upper part of the water pump housing, just below the air intake tube.
General Steps:
- Let the Engine Cool Down Completely. Hot coolant can cause serious burns.
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Locate the sensor. You may need to remove the plastic engine cover or air intake tube for access.
- Place a drain pan under the sensor location. A small amount of coolant will spill out.
- Disconnect the electrical connector. There is usually a small tab to press or a clip to release.
- Unscrew the old sensor. Use a deep socket (often 19mm for the V8) to remove the sensor.
- Install the new sensor. Screw the new sensor in by hand first to avoid cross-threading, then tighten it until it's snug. Do not overtighten.
- Reconnect the electrical connector and battery.
- Top off the coolant. Replace any coolant that was lost with the correct type for your Charger.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the ECT sensor on my Dodge Charger?
On 3.6L V6 models, it's on the back of the driver's side cylinder head. On 5.7L and 6.4L V8 models, it's on the front of the engine in the water pump housing.
Can I drive with a bad coolant temperature sensor?
It is not recommended. Driving with a bad sensor can lead to poor performance, bad fuel economy, and potentially engine damage from overheating. It's best to get it fixed as soon as possible.
What are the trouble codes for a bad ECT sensor?
The most common codes are P0117 (Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low) and P0118 (Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High). P0117 suggests the computer sees a very high temperature, while P0118 suggests it sees a very low temperature.
Are there any recalls for the Dodge Charger ECT sensor?
Based on searches of the NHTSA database and technical service bulletins, there are no widespread recalls or TSBs specifically for a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor on the 2012-2023 Dodge Charger. Failures are typically due to normal wear and tear.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 5149077AB 5066779AA 68164627AA
Typically a 2-pin thermistor sensor that threads into a coolant passage on the engine block, cylinder head, or water pump housing.
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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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