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P0117 2017 GMC Sierra Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input

Quick Answer

The P0117 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for a 2017 GMC Sierra indicates that there is a low input from the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor circuit. Common causes include Faulty ECT Sensor: The ECT sensor itself may be malfunctioning, providing inaccurate temperature readings to the ECM, Wiring Issues: Damaged or corroded wiring connections to the ECT sensor can disrupt the signal transmission, leading to a low input error, Coolant Level: Low coolant levels or air pockets in the cooling system can interfere with the ECT sensor's ability to measure temperature accurately. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means
P0117 2017 GMC Sierra indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty ECT Sensor: The ECT sensor itself may be malfunctioning, providing inaccurate temperature readings to the ECM, Wiring Issues: Damaged or corroded wiring connections to the ECT sensor can disrupt the signal transmission, leading to a low input error, Coolant Level: Low coolant levels or air pockets in the cooling system can interfere with the ECT sensor's ability to measure temperature accurately.
Severity
High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?
Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.
What is this?
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 10, 2024
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Code P0117 2017 GMC Sierra Description

The P0117 diagnostic trouble code (DTC) for a 2017 GMC Sierra indicates that there is a low input from the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor circuit. The ECT sensor is a crucial component that measures the temperature of the engine coolant. This information is vital for the engine control module (ECM) to adjust fuel delivery and ignition timing to ensure optimal engine performance and efficiency.

OBDII Code P0117 2017 GMC Sierra - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input
P0117 2017 GMC Sierra Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input

Common Causes of P0117 2017 GMC Sierra

  1. Faulty ECT Sensor: The ECT sensor itself may be malfunctioning, providing inaccurate temperature readings to the ECM.
  2. Wiring Issues: Damaged or corroded wiring connections to the ECT sensor can disrupt the signal transmission, leading to a low input error.
  3. Coolant Level: Low coolant levels or air pockets in the cooling system can interfere with the ECT sensor's ability to measure temperature accurately.
  4. ECM Malfunction: A fault in the engine control module can also trigger the P0117 code by misinterpreting the ECT sensor data.
  5. Thermostat Failure: A stuck-open thermostat can prevent the engine from reaching the optimal operating temperature, causing the ECT sensor to report low readings.

Symptoms of P0117 2017 GMC Sierra

  1. Check Engine Light: The most common symptom associated with this code is the illumination of the check engine light on the dashboard.
  2. Poor Fuel Economy: A faulty ECT sensor can lead to incorrect fuel delivery, resulting in decreased fuel efficiency.
  3. Engine Misfires: Incorrect engine coolant temperature readings can cause the engine to misfire, leading to rough idling or hesitation during acceleration.
  4. Engine Overheating: If the ECT sensor provides inaccurate readings, the engine may overheat due to improper cooling system operation.
  5. Hard Starting: A malfunctioning ECT sensor can cause difficulty starting the engine, especially in cold weather conditions.

How to Fix P0117 2017 GMC Sierra

  1. Diagnosis: Use a scan tool to retrieve the DTC and perform a thorough inspection of the ECT sensor, wiring, and coolant levels.
  2. ECT Sensor Replacement: If the sensor is faulty, replace it with a new one following the manufacturer's specifications.
  3. Check Wiring: Inspect the wiring harness for any damage or corrosion and repair or replace as needed.
  4. Coolant System Inspection: Verify the coolant level and ensure there are no leaks or air pockets in the cooling system.
  5. ECM Testing: If all other components check out, consider testing the ECM for any faults that may be causing the low input error.

Cost to Fix P0117 2017 GMC Sierra

The typical repair costs for resolving a P0117 code on a 2017 GMC Sierra can vary depending on the specific cause of the issue. In general, replacing the ECT sensor can cost between $50 to $150, while labor charges may range from $80 to $150 per hour. Additional costs may apply if wiring repairs or ECM testing are required. It's advisable to consult with a certified mechanic or auto repair shop for a precise estimate based on the vehicle's condition and the extent of the repairs needed.

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

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