P0117 on Chevrolet: How to Diagnose & Fix
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
1 Chevrolet model · 1 documented issue · $200-$800 repair
P0117 on Chevrolet by model: symptoms, diagnosis and fix
The Chevrolet Sonic across all model years is prone to premature water pump failure. The water pump on the Ecotec engines (both 1.4T and 1.8L) can begin leaking coolant between 40,000-80,000 miles. On the 1.4T, the water pump is driven by the timing chain, so failure can lead to more serious engine damage if coolant loss goes unnoticed. The 1.8L has a belt-driven pump that is easier and cheaper to replace.
Common Symptoms
- Coolant level dropping between fills
- Visible coolant leak under vehicle
- Engine temperature gauge running higher than normal
- Sweet smell from engine bay (coolant odor)
- Whining or grinding noise from water pump bearing
How to Fix
Replace the water pump at the first sign of leaking. On the 1.4T, the water pump is internal and driven by the timing chain, making replacement more labor-intensive ($400-$800). On the 1.8L, it is belt-driven and easier to access ($200-$400). Monitor coolant levels regularly. Replace the thermostat at the same time.
What you need to fix it
Only diagnosis- and fitment-reviewed repair parts are linked here.
- Engine Water PumpCross-refWPK-818
Fitment confirmed against the ShowMeTheParts catalog for this vehicle's year and engine.
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Sources for this issue (1)
P0117 code reference
General diagnostic-code context. The code alone does not confirm a cause for your vehicle; use the applicable issue card and its sources.
Frequently asked questions
What does P0117 mean on a Chevrolet?
P0117 stands for "Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low." This code means the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor is reading too low a voltage, which the computer interprets as an impossibly high coolant temperature. In most cases this is an electrical fault — such as a short to ground in the wiring — rather than the engine actually overheating. The coolant temperature signal affects fuel mixture, cooling fans, and other functions, so a bad reading can cause poor running, hard starting, or fans running constantly. The fault is usually in the sensor or its wiring. On Chevrolet it is documented across 1 model: Sonic.
What are the most common causes of P0117?
The most common causes of P0117 are: Faulty engine coolant temperature sensor, Short to ground in the sensor signal wire, Damaged or corroded wiring/connector at the sensor, Coolant contamination affecting the sensor, Poor electrical ground, Faulty PCM/ECM (less common). The specific cause varies by vehicle.
How much does it cost to fix P0117 on a Chevrolet?
Published repair estimates on Chevrolet range from $200 to $800 depending on the model and root cause. If an issue mentions a recall or campaign, check your VIN with the manufacturer or NHTSA and confirm eligibility and coverage with a dealer.
Looking for P0117 on a different make?
View P0117 across all makes →Content compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, and owner reports. May contain errors. Always verify with your vehicle's service manual.