Section 03-14: Engine Controls, Electronic
1996 F-150, F-250, F-350, F-Super Duty Series and Bronco Vehicles Workshop Manual
DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION

Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor

Gasoline Engines

The engine coolant temperature sensor (ECT sensor) (12A648) changes resistance in response to changing temperature of the engine coolant. The engine coolant temperature sensor resistance decreases as the engine coolant temperature increases providing a signal to the powertrain control module (PCM) (12A650) indicating the temperature of the engine coolant.