In attempting to diagnose a P0126 code (Insufficient Coolant Temperature for Stable Operation), I have discovered that the snap connector to the ECT sensor is broken.





I had thought to replace the ECT sensor itself, but I have yet to test it with the multimeter to make sure it's the culprit. In any case, a new connector is necessary at this point.
The remainder of the harness is in surprisingly good shape - no other damaged or deterioriated connectors. Ideally, a new connector the ECT sensor would be the way to go. Finding one is the task. My attempts to source a replacement connector are coming up empty.

Any tips?

 

A small dollop of rtv just in front of that corrugated seal will keep it in place or here’s your alternative. Just look it up for your year car but I think all the X308 cars use the same coolant temperature sensor and therefore the same connector. You could always take the wires out of both sockets and just put the new socket on your existing factory wires.

 

There were two types of ECT sensors, early (AJ26) and late (AJ27):



They use different connectors. The Standard HP 4665 connector is for the later type and will not fit your sensor which, by looking at the picture of your connector, is the early type (note the different position of the inner keys/grooves of your connector and the Standard one. The connector you need is the Toyota 90980-10737. You can get it on Ebay: Toyota 90980-10737 Water Temperature Engine Temp Sensor Connector Plug - LX04 | eBay or at Amazon: or you can search further.

 

looks like the aj27 connector to me

 

 

Perfect. Excellent info.
Definitely the early type and the AJ26 connector.
Many thanks!

 

what year is your car?

 

2003 Vanden Plas

 

should be AJ27 style

 

You are right but it appears that the cross-over pipe was replaced at some point and, instead of the later style pipe AJ82216 (having 3/8 NPT female thread for the late sensor), the early style pipe, NCA2241BC, was installed which carries the early style sensor with M12 thread. The late style ("AJ27") connector would have also been replaced with the early style at that point.