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SPN 3359moderate severity✨ AI-generated

Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Out of Range

The engine coolant temperature sensor is reporting an out-of-range value.

Heads up: this code wasn't in our hand-written library yet, so DiagCoach AI built this page on the fly. Double-check critical specs against service info before condemning parts.

What it means (plain English)

The engine coolant temperature sensor measures how hot the engine coolant is. If it reports a temperature that’s too high or too low, the engine's performance can suffer and it might not run well.

What the computer is actually seeing

The engine control module (ECM) sees temperature readings from the coolant temperature sensor that are outside the normal operating range—less than -40°C (-40°F) or greater than 150°C (302°F).

What a healthy reading looks like

Normal coolant temperature ranges from 70°C to 110°C (158°F to 230°F).

Guided diagnostic — the DiagCoach way

Don't just throw parts at it. Walk through these in order — each step tells you whether to keep going or stop and fix what you found.

  1. 11. Inspect the wiring and connector at the coolant temperature sensor for damage or corrosion. Repair as needed. Decision: if damage is found, repair and retest; if not, move to next step.
  2. 22. Check the engine coolant level. It should be at the recommended level. Decision: if coolant is low, top up and retest; if normal, continue.
  3. 33. With a scan tool, check the engine coolant temperature reading. If it’s still out of range, replace the coolant temperature sensor and retest. Decision: if replacing the sensor resolves the code, you're done; if not, further diagnostics are needed.

Common causes

  • Faulty coolant temperature sensor
  • Wiring issues or bad connectors
  • Coolant level low or contaminated coolant

Typical repair cost

$$$

Related codes

Frequently asked questions

Can I still drive the truck with this code?

It’s not recommended. The engine may overheat or run poorly, leading to more serious issues.

Will this code come back after clearing it?

It might, especially if the underlying issue isn't fixed (like a damaged sensor or wiring).

Why does this code come with others like SPN 110?

Other codes related to temperature and performance might trigger due to the same issue affecting multiple sensors or systems.

Working a real vehicle right now?

Let DiagCoach walk you through it live with your specific symptoms, vehicle, and what you've already checked.

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