[SOLVED] 2016 Engine Temp sensor fail (suburban 5.3)

[16suburbanguy]

So I’ve had an ongoing issue with my Engine temp sensor failing at random points. I can’t really point to a specific cause. I’ve changed the sensor twice (ac delco parts) and I’ve changed the pig tail. But still the problem exists. Could it be a thermostat issue?!? I really need help…I need to make this car work but I don’t want to throw mud at the wall and start shotgunning parts.

 

[Fless]

What are the symptoms of "failing at random points?" What brand sensors are being used?

 

[16suburbanguy]

AC delco. I cant pin point the exact reason why it fails. Driving on the highway or backroads. Smooth or bumpy roads. Hot or cold outdoor temps. I just don’t know enough about the system to pinpoint a specific component or splice point.

 

[Doubeleive]

So I’ve had an ongoing issue with my Engine temp sensor failing at random points. I can’t really point to a specific cause. I’ve changed the sensor twice (ac delco parts) and I’ve changed the pig tail. But still the problem exists. Could it be a thermostat issue?!? I really need help…I need to make this car work but I don’t want to throw mud at the wall and start shotgunning parts.

could maybe be the thermostat, there seems to be a rash of this issue everytime the weather warms up

 

[Fless]

I'm asking about the symptoms of failure. Does it stop reporting? Report inaccurately? Report intermittently?

 

[Doubeleive]

I'm asking about the symptoms of failure. Does it stop reporting? Report inaccurately? Report intermittently?

On these k2's if the temp sensor gets disconnected/unplugged/battery disconnected, etc
then it will operate in a default status for like 3 days before it decides to report a problem, it's really strange that gm did that.
other symptoms will be/or could be fans running high speed after the engine is off, or high speed right at startup. no ac/too hot,
root problem "seems" to be thermostat sticking. but can't say for sure, could vary from case to case.
then---- you have to mix in the bad aftermarket thermostats that are out there with high failure rates.

 

[16suburbanguy]

I'm asking about the symptoms of failure. Does it stop reporting? Report inaccurately? Report intermittently?

It just stops reporting.

 

[16suburbanguy]

On these k2's if the temp sensor gets disconnected/unplugged/battery disconnected, etc
then it will operate in a default status for like 3 days before it decides to report a problem, it's really strange that gm did that.
other symptoms will be/or could be fans running high speed after the engine is off, or high speed right at startup. no ac/too hot,
root problem "seems" to be thermostat sticking. but can't say for sure, could vary from case to case.
then---- you have to mix in the bad aftermarket thermostats that are out there with high failure rates.

 

[16suburbanguy]

It’s completely random when it will cut out. I do t get any check engine lights. It will just stop reporting and then my fan kicks on high.

 

[Doubeleive]

It’s completely random when it will cut out. I do t get any check engine lights. It will just stop reporting and then my fan kicks on high.

If it were me I would probably just throw a OEM thermostat at it, there easy. then if the problem persists do more deeper diagnostics
certainly won't hurt to try. just grab a gallon of 50/50 mix (dexcool/compatible) to top it back off afterwards, no need to drain the whole system.

 

[Fless]

If I'm seeing the correct part it's just a two-conductor sensor, which means it's probably just a thermistor and the resistance changes when the temperature changes. If you still have your old ones why not test them with an ohm meter and warm/cool the element to see if the sensor is working or not?

 

[16suburbanguy]

I really appreciate all the help! I’m gonna run through the sensor and replace thermostat today. I will let you know the results.

 

[16suburbanguy]

Pulled the thermostat and the inner spring was soft and very easy to move. Car is running perfect now! Thank you again for all the help and tips everyone!