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P0116 on Hyundai Elantra

Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance

Factory diagnostic protocol and troubleshooting wire for fault code P0116 specifically for the Hyundai Elantra (2020–2026, 2.0L Smartstream (147HP) / 1.6L Turbo (N Line 201HP) / 2.0L Turbo (Elantra N 276HP)).

Verified OEM Telemetry & Field Repair Tree
Hyundai Elantra2020–2026
Hyundai Elantra
Sedan2.0L Smartstream (147HP) / 1.6L Turbo (N Line 201HP) / 2.0L Turbo (Elantra N 276HP)
Reliability
Sensor Voltage Ref
0.1V – 5.0V Ref
Elantra SAE Mode $01
ECU Network Bus
500 kbps CAN-FD
ISO 15765-4 Compliant
Drivability Status
Drivable (Short Trip)
Medium urgency level
Est. Repair Cost
$90 - $260
Parts & Labor DIY
Check P0116 On Another Hyundai Model:
Diagnose P0116 on Specific Elantra Model Year:

1. Symptoms of P0116 on Hyundai Elantra

When the Engine Control Module (ECM/PCM) on your Hyundai Elantra (2.0L Smartstream (147HP) / 1.6L Turbo (N Line 201HP) / 2.0L Turbo (Elantra N 276HP)) logs fault code P0116, drivers commonly observe:

Check Engine Light on on Hyundai Elantra (2.0L Smartstream (147HP) / 1.6L Turbo (N Line 201HP) / 2.0L Turbo (Elantra N 276HP))
Erratic temperature gauge on Hyundai Elantra (2.0L Smartstream (147HP) / 1.6L Turbo (N Line 201HP) / 2.0L Turbo (Elantra N 276HP))
Radiator fans running constantly on Hyundai Elantra (2.0L Smartstream (147HP) / 1.6L Turbo (N Line 201HP) / 2.0L Turbo (Elantra N 276HP))
Hyundai Elantra OBD-II Port Location
The 16-pin diagnostic connector is located Behind fuse cover panel on driver left knee dashboard. Plug in your scan tool to verify freeze-frame sensor values.

2. Most Likely Causes on Hyundai Elantra

Historical warranty claims and technical repair bulletins for Hyundai Elantra point to the following failure distribution:

55%
Stuck open thermostat (Hyundai OEM Part)
25%
Air pocket in cooling system (Hyundai OEM Part)
12%
Faulty ECT sensor (Hyundai OEM Part)
* Source: Synthesized from NHTSA ODI field repair telemetry and verified OEM Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) repair tree frequency percentiles for Hyundai Elantra.

3. Step-by-Step DIY Repair Guide for Hyundai Elantra

01
Scan and Record Freeze Frame Telemetry

Connect an OBD-II scan tool and record freeze frame sensor telemetry for code P0116 to note engine RPM, load, and voltage when the fault triggered. on the Hyundai Elantra equipped with 2.0L Smartstream (147HP) / 1.6L Turbo (N Line 201HP) / 2.0L Turbo (Elantra N 276HP).

Required Tool: OBD-II Scanner
02
Inspect Related Wiring Harness & Connectors

Inspect the electrical connector and wiring harness related to P0116 for chafing, corrosion, moisture, or pin push-out. on the Hyundai Elantra equipped with 2.0L Smartstream (147HP) / 1.6L Turbo (N Line 201HP) / 2.0L Turbo (Elantra N 276HP).

Required Tool: Flashlight, Multimeter
03
Test Component Resistance & Voltage Supply

Measure circuit voltage supply (12V B+ or 5V reference) and sensor/actuator resistance according to factory repair manual specifications. on the Hyundai Elantra equipped with 2.0L Smartstream (147HP) / 1.6L Turbo (N Line 201HP) / 2.0L Turbo (Elantra N 276HP).

Required Tool: Digital Multimeter
04
Replace Defective Component

Install a new OEM-grade replacement part, torque fasteners to factory spec, and ensure electrical locking tabs click firmly. on the Hyundai Elantra equipped with 2.0L Smartstream (147HP) / 1.6L Turbo (N Line 201HP) / 2.0L Turbo (Elantra N 276HP).

Required Tool: Hand Tool Socket Set, Torque Wrench
05
Clear Trouble Codes & Complete Drive Cycle

Clear all stored DTCs from vehicle memory and perform an OBD-II drive cycle to confirm the diagnostic monitor resets to 'Ready'. on the Hyundai Elantra equipped with 2.0L Smartstream (147HP) / 1.6L Turbo (N Line 201HP) / 2.0L Turbo (Elantra N 276HP).

Required Tool: OBD-II Scanner
Recommended Parts & Testing Tools

Equipment for Diagnosing Hyundai Elantra (P0116)

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Variable Valve Timing (VVT)

VVT Oil Control Solenoid Valve

4.6 / 5.0 (Direct Fit)

Restores accurate camshaft timing and oil pressure regulation on Hyundai Elantra.

$34 – $65 Prime
Check Fitment on Amazon
Sensor Signal Voltage Meter

AstroAI Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter

4.6 / 5.0 (Best Seller)

Essential for testing 0.1V–5.0V sensor reference signals, ground continuity (<0.20Ω), and harness resistance.

$29.99 Prime
View on Amazon
Top Mobile OBD-II Scanner

BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool

4.7 / 5.0 (50,000+ Reviews)

Reads and clears enhanced codes (ABS, Airbag, Transmission, Engine) & live freeze-frame telemetry on phone.

Compare OEM & Aftermarket Replacement Sensors for Hyundai ElantraVerified direct-fit pricing from Denso, Bosch, Motorcraft, and ACDelco on Amazon.
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Other Common Fault Codes on Hyundai Elantra

Frequently diagnosed powertrain, emissions, and sensor trouble codes logged on the Hyundai Elantra:

4. Hyundai Elantra P0116 FAQs

What causes code P0116 to trigger on a Hyundai Elantra?

On the Hyundai Elantra (2.0L Smartstream (147HP) / 1.6L Turbo (N Line 201HP) / 2.0L Turbo (Elantra N 276HP)), P0116 is most frequently caused by Stuck open thermostat or Air pocket in cooling system.

Where is the OBD-II port located on my Hyundai Elantra?

On the Hyundai Elantra, the 16-pin DLC diagnostic connector is located Behind fuse cover panel on driver left knee dashboard. Plug in any standard OBD-II scanner with the ignition in the ON position to read freeze-frame parameters.

Can I safely drive my Hyundai Elantra with code P0116?

Caution. Verify engine is not overheating. Given that P0116 carries a Medium severity rating, we advise avoiding heavy towing or aggressive throttle inputs until sensor readings are verified.