A fuel temperature sensor is installed in vehicles to gauge the amount of fuel required for consistent performance. The sensor transmits this information to the Engine Control Unit (ECU) of the vehicle. When the fuel is warm it burns easily, as it’s less dense, the ECU is then signalled by the temperature sensor to inject fuel in the combustion chamber. But, you can expect the opposite if the fuel is dense and cold.
The fuel economy of a car is affected significantly if the fuel temperature sensor goes bad. Let’s find out the bad fuel temperature sensor symptoms due to which the fuel efficiency suffers.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN THE FUEL TEMPERATURE SENSOR GOES BAD?
Beware of a bad fuel temperature sensor because it tends to send false signals to the computer, throwing off the fuel and timing calculations. As a result, this leads to the ECU detecting that the engine is cold even when it is not, prompting the car to take up more fuel than necessary.
BAD FUEL TEMPERATURE SENSOR SYMPTOMS
If you follow a regular car maintenance schedule, then there is a possibility that many auto parts can be repaired on time. But, such small parts may need some extra work to function properly. Detailed below are some of the bad fuel temperature sensor symptoms that may help you save the expensive engine and transmission repairs
YOU SENSE POOR FUEL ECONOMY
As you would have observed, a major role of the fuel temperature sensor is to accurately report that the correct mixture of fuel is used. Think of it like this: a higher ratio of fuel is required to cool the engine’s temperature so if the ECT is reporting a cool temperature when the engine is warm or hot, the car will need more fuel than needed. Typically, a bad fuel temperature sensor reports a cooler temperature than is accurate, leading to poor fuel economy as the first sign. However, get it checked by a professional technician because this could not be the case always, as cars become less fuel-efficient with time.
YOU READ IRREGULAR TEMPERATURE READINGS
Linked to the first symptom is the second sign of irregular engine temperature readings with more fluctuations than usual. It may read higher or lower than usual while you drive, alongside weird coolness in the engine as it won’t typically warm up as it does. In that case, you should visit a mechanic to take a look at the cooling system as well as the fuel temperature sensor for the sensor may be reading inaccurately.
YOU OBSERVE BLACK SMOKE COMING OFF THE EXHAUST
We have learned that the fuel temperature sensor controls the fuel ratio. When the temperature sensor fails to regulate the ratio and if there is excess fuel being used that is not being burnt in the combustion chamber, you would most likely notice some black smoke coming out of the car exhaust pipe. Primarily, the reason could be that the excess fuel is burnt off. Although a little black smoke may seem harmless, it’s almost an indication of a bad fuel temperature and that you should pull over immediately.
THE ENGINE STARTS TO OVERHEAT
A bad fuel temperature sensor may give a constant cold signal, it can also mess up and communicate a hot signal when the engine temperature is quite safe. As a result, your car will indicate an overheating engine when there is no such issue, leading to the dashboard warning light on. Ultimately, this will affect the performance of your car.
Besides, if engine overheating is consistent, better get it checked by a professional technician to avoid any expensive repairs in the long run. In case, the solution costs you more than the actual value of the car, better replace it with another car. If replacing with a new vehicle in the middle of a month is difficult, then you may opt to buy a used car in the UAE that fits your budget and fulfils your need.
THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT TURNS ON
We all saw this coming. The check engine light on the dashboard turns on almost every time the fuel temperature sensor is making issues, is failing, or has failed. It is because the car’s computer senses that the sensor is sending wrong signals, triggering the check engine light so you’re on alert. When that happens, make sure you do not delay your visit to the mechanic.
WHERE IS THE FUEL TEMPERATURE SENSOR LOCATED?
It is helpful to know the fuel temperature sensor location inside your car. Consult your car’s manual to spot the exact location as it tends to vary depending on the model and brand of the vehicle.
If you even come across any of the bad fuel temperature sensor symptoms, detailed above, always take proactive measures at the earliest. Head to the service centre to take assistance from a professional technician or if you are well-versed in auto parts repair and maintenance then fix the problem yourself. Make sure you buy the right auto accessories and parts before starting the repair work.
Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for more information on different auto parts and maintenance guides.
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