Hi, just a simple and maybe stupid question..

I just want to change the coolant temperature sensor (part number LHE1600AA) on my x300, is it as simple as disconnecting the wires, unscrewing and then putting the new one on or am I missing something? Thanks in advance for any help!

 

That's all it takes. Just make sure the engine is cold.

 

Thank you very much for that quick reply!

 

Be ready to collect the coolant the that will leak out while there is no sensor in the hole.

 

To minimise coolant loss, take the tank cap off first to release any built up pressure then replace the cap and you shouldnt lose much.

Cheers,
Jeff.

 

Thank you again for your help, I was just about to fit this but, the top plastic part of the sensor looks a little different to the original, the part number I’ve got is LHE1600AA which should be correct and probably is as I’m sure things are manufactured slightly differently as time moves on. The electrical connector fits fine but the plastic part where the spanner fits covers the whole top on the original one and only the electric connector is plastic on the new part. Does this make any difference or is it just the same part but just produced slightly differently and is in fact the same part?

Also one more question about sensors, I see the air temp sensor that fits in the elbow about 2 feet back from where the air filter housing is has the same type connector as the coolant temperature sensor, when trying to find that part I keep getting the same part number for both parts, are they the same sensor? Many thanks for your help!

 

Sorry think I’ve found it, part number EAC2863 for the air temp sensor?! Looks very similar!

 

I remember changing out the coolant temp sensor a few years back and it's a pretty straightforward job.

The Intake Air Temp sensor and the Coolant Temp sensors are very different, so should not be mixed.

 

I see there is no washer with the coolant temperature sensor, would there not have been a copper washer originally that crushes upon tightening? I will do it up tight but coolant does love to find a way out?

 

The original engine coolant temperature sensors did have a washer. I can't recall whether it was copper or aluminum, but either should work. See Part 11 in this diagram:





The part number for the washer is C229623 but it is listed as no longer available. You should be able to find a copper washer at your local auto parts store in the oil drain plug section, or at better hardware stores. Our local True Value carries copper washers in its specialty hardware section.

The ECTS is a very common part used on many vehicles, so production has continued all these years. The design of some of the more modern replacements is different than the originals. Some of them have the hex for tightening the sensor molded into the plastic connector body. That plastic hex is not very tough and can spin around on the sensor body before the sensor is securely tightened in the thermostat housing. If you can find the old style sensor with the hex machined from brass you'll be happier.

The electrical connector is the Bosch EV1 and is the same connector used on the IAT sensor, fuel injectors, and maybe a few other components.

Cheers,

Don