How to Remove the Coolent Temperature Sensor from a 2001 Dodge Caravan

The coolant temperature sensor on your 2001 Dodge Caravan is a device that measures temperatures of your engine coolant. It relays this information back to your car's power control module, which in turn alerts the driver. Over time, the sensor can become corroded or otherwise damaged. If this occurs it should be replaced. However, before the part can be replaced it has to be removed. Removing your old sensor takes about 15 minutes.

Things You'll Need

• Socket set
• Drain pan

Instructions

1. Pop open the hood on your Dodge Caravan. Loosen and then remove your negative battery cable for safety purposes. Use your socket set to loosen and remove the battery cable.

2. Check to make sure your radiator is not hot. If it is, allow it to cool. If it is cold, go ahead and open the radiator cap by pushing down on it and twisting sharply to the left.

3. Place the drain pan under the radiator drain plug. Open the plug with your socket set and allow all the fluid to drain into the pan. Put the radiator drain plug back on. Hand thread the plug first to get it started then tighten it with your socket set.

4. Locate your coolant temperature sensor. On your Caravan it will be located next to the the thermostat between the top radiator hose and the engine block.

5. Unplug the plastic wiring harness from the back of the sensor.

6. Remove the single retaining bolt with your socket set. Pull the sensor up and out.

Tips & Warnings

• Never open your radiator when it is hot.

References

• "Dodge Caravan, Plymouth Voyager & Chrysler Town & Country: 1996 thru 2002 (Haynes Repair Manual)" ; L. Alan Ledoux; 2002