Ram 5500 Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor: A Complete Guide (2019-2024)
Keep your 6.7L Cummins running right by understanding the signs of a failing engine coolant temperature sensor.
- A bad ECT sensor often causes the cooling fan to run constantly or the check engine light to come on with codes P0117 or P0118.
- For this part, top-tier aftermarket brands like Delphi or NGK offer OEM-level quality and are a reliable choice over cheaper, budget options.
- Replacement is a simple DIY task for most owners, requiring basic tools and taking less than an hour on a cold engine.
- Ignoring the issue can lead to poor fuel economy, failed emissions tests, and potentially severe engine damage from overheating.
Is Your Ram 5500's Engine Acting Up? It Could Be the Coolant Temp Sensor
If you own a 2019-2024 Ram 5500, you depend on its 6.7L Cummins engine to handle tough jobs. A tiny, inexpensive part called the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor plays a huge role in keeping that powerhouse running smoothly. When it starts to fail, it can cause a surprising number of problems, from bad fuel mileage to a constantly running cooling fan. This guide will walk you through the symptoms of a bad ECT sensor, how to choose the right aftermarket replacement, and what to expect for installation.
Common Failure Symptoms
A failing ECT sensor can trick your truck's computer. It might tell the computer the engine is cold when it's actually hot, or vice-versa. This leads to noticeable problems. Look out for these common signs:
- Check Engine Light: This is often the first sign. You'll see codes like P0117 (circuit low) or P0118 (circuit high).
- Cooling Fan Stays On: The fan may run constantly at full blast, even when the engine is cold. This is a failsafe mode to prevent overheating if the computer gets a bad signal.
- Poor Fuel Economy: If the sensor wrongly tells the computer the engine is cold, the computer will inject extra fuel, hurting your MPG.
- Black Smoke from Exhaust: This is a sign of the engine running too rich (too much fuel), which can be caused by a bad sensor reading.
- Engine Overheating: If the sensor fails to report that the engine is getting hot, the cooling fan may not turn on when needed, leading to overheating.
- Hard Starting: Especially when the engine is warm, a bad sensor can make starting difficult.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor for Your Ram 5500
You don't have to buy the OEM Mopar part from the dealer. For a simple sensor like this, high-quality aftermarket brands can offer the same performance for less money. However, not all aftermarket brands are created equal. Here’s a breakdown of the brands available:
Tier 1: OE-Quality or Equivalent
- Delphi: Often an Original Equipment (OE) supplier to many automakers. Delphi parts are widely trusted for their quality and reliability, making them a top choice.
- NGK/NTK: Known for excellence in engine management sensors. NTK is the sensor division of NGK, and they are also a major OE supplier. You can trust their parts to meet or exceed factory specs.
- Beck Arnley: This brand sources parts from various manufacturers, often from the same ones that supply the automaker directly. They focus on providing a part that matches the original in fit, form, and function.
Tier 2: Reliable Mid-Range Options
- Standard Ignition (SMP): A long-standing name in the aftermarket with a solid reputation. They produce reliable parts that are a good balance of quality and price.
- Walker Products: Another established brand offering a wide range of engine management components that are a dependable alternative to pricier options.
Tier 3: Budget-Friendly Choices
- Dorman: Dorman offers a huge variety of parts and is known for creating fixes for common factory part flaws. However, quality can sometimes be inconsistent for sensors compared to OE-focused brands.
- Global Parts, Motorad: These brands typically fall into the value category. They can be a good choice if budget is the primary concern, but may not offer the same long-term durability as the higher-tier brands.
Pro Tip: For a critical sensor like the ECT, spending a few extra dollars on a Tier 1 brand like Delphi or NGK is a wise investment in reliability for your work truck.
Cost of Replacing the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor
| Part or Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Sensor | $19.76 - $61.44 |
| New OEM (Mopar) Sensor | $45 - $70 |
| Shop Labor Cost | $98 - $185 |
| Total Professional Replacement (Aftermarket Part + Labor) | $118 - $246 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the ECT sensor located on the 2019-2024 Ram 5500?
On the 6.7L Cummins engine, the engine coolant temperature sensor is typically located near the thermostat housing, often towards the top and front of the engine. You can usually follow the upper radiator hose to find the general area. The sensor itself is a small plug with a wiring connector.
Is replacing the ECT sensor a DIY job?
Yes, for most people with basic tools, this is a very manageable DIY repair. The job involves letting the engine cool completely, partially draining some coolant, unplugging the old sensor, unscrewing it with a deep socket, and then installing the new one. The key is to work on a cold engine to avoid burns from hot coolant.
What happens if I ignore a bad ECT sensor?
Ignoring a bad ECT sensor is not recommended. It can lead to engine overheating, which may cause severe and expensive damage like a warped cylinder head. It can also cause poor engine performance, terrible fuel economy, and will prevent your truck from passing an emissions test.
Are there any recalls for this part?
As of now, there are no specific NHTSA recalls for the engine coolant temperature sensor itself on the 2019-2024 Ram 5500. However, there have been recalls for other cooling system components on Ram trucks, so it's always good to check for any open recalls on your specific vehicle using your VIN.
Should I buy an OEM Mopar sensor or is aftermarket OK?
For this specific part, a high-quality aftermarket sensor from a brand like Delphi or NGK is perfectly acceptable and can save you money. These companies are often the original suppliers to the manufacturer. Cheaper, lower-quality sensors can sometimes provide inaccurate readings or fail prematurely, so it's best to avoid the lowest-priced options.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 5149077AB 5149096AB 68447277AA
The sensor is a two-pin thermistor that changes resistance based on coolant temperature. It screws into a coolant passage on the engine, typically near the thermostat 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.
- Ram 5500:
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Ram 5500's Engine Acting Up? It Could Be the Coolant Temp Sensor
- Common Failure Symptoms
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor for Your Ram 5500
- Tier 1: OE-Quality or Equivalent
- Tier 2: Reliable Mid-Range Options
- Tier 3: Budget-Friendly Choices
- Cost of Replacing the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor
- Frequently Asked Questions
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