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How to Replace Coolant Temperature Sensor 1985-2002 Chevy Cavalier

Created on: 2013-08-19

Check out this video to learn how to replace the coolant temperature sensor on your 95-02 Chevy Cavalier.

  1. step 1 :Removing the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor
    • Have a drain pan ready
    • Disconnect the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor wiring harness
    • Remove the ECT sensor with a 3/4 inch socket
  2. step 2 :Installing the New ECT Sensor
    • Twist the new sensor into place
    • Tighten the new sensor to between 20 - 25 foot-pounds of torque
  3. step 3 :Refilling the Coolant
    • Add coolant to make up for any coolant lost during the repair
    • Drive the vehicle
    • Check the fluid level
    • Add more coolant as necessary

Tools needed

  • 3/4 Inch Socket

    Torque Wrench

    Drain Pan

    Ratchet

Brought to you by 1AAuto.com, your source for quality replacement parts and the best service on the Internet.

Hi, I'm Don from 1A Auto. I hope this how-to video helps you out, and next time you need parts for your vehicle, think of 1AAuto.com. Thanks.

In this video, we're going to replace the ECT or Engine Coolant Temperature sensor on this 2000 Cavalier with the four-cylinder motor, the same as a lot of GM vehicles with this four-cylinder engine. The only tool you'll need is a 3/4 inch, deep socket and a ratchet.

The ECT sensor is located right behind the alternator on the passenger side. There is just a little clip. Reach in and unplug the sensor. Now, you just need a 3/4 inch socket, a deep socket is best. Start removing the sensor. The sensor is a little bit below the top of the water. So, you're going to get just a little bit of water that comes out. You want to have a catch pan underneath. As you'll see, Don will be ready with the new sensor right next to it. As he pulls out the old sensor, some water comes out.

He puts the new sensor right in. You can see it's the correct sensor; it matches the original. You want to tighten the new sensor up to about 20 to 25 foot pounds, tight, but not too tight.

As you saw, we lost a little bit of fluid, so once you're done with the repair, drive the vehicle a little bit, check the coolant, and add as necessary. Once you've got it tightened up, plug it back in and you should be all set.

We hope this video helps you out. Brought to you by www.1AAuto.com, your source for quality replacement parts and the best service on the Internet. Please feel free to call us toll-free, 888-844-3393. We're the company that's here for you on the Internet and in person.


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