Parts for your 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero-Temperature sensors

2001 Mitsubishi Pajero Temperature Sensors

Temperature sensors are absolutely fitted to the 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero (NM/NP series) and are critical to how it runs. This is supported by the Mitsubishi Pajero NM/NP Workshop Manual (Engine – Group 13A/13B, Electrical – Group 90), which details the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor, Intake Air Temperature (IAT) sensor, and related wiring. Haynes and Gregory’s Pajero/Montero manuals for this generation also cover diagnostics for ECT/IAT fault codes (e.g., P0115–P0119, P0113). The Automatic Transmission section (V4A51) lists the ATF temperature sensor, and the HVAC section notes an ambient temp sensor on models with automatic climate control.

On the 2001 Pajero, temperature sensors do more than run a gauge. The ECT sensor tells the engine computer how hot the coolant is so it can set fuel mixture, ignition timing and idle speed, and switch radiator fans. Many Pajeros also have a separate sender for the dash gauge. The IAT sensor (often built into the MAF on petrol 6G74, and used similarly on 4M41 diesel) helps the ECU trim fueling based on incoming air temp. Autos use a transmission fluid temperature sensor to manage shift strategy and protect the box. Higher trims with auto climate control add an ambient temp sensor to keep cabin temps steady.

They’re not high-maintenance parts, but a bit of care during regular servicing goes a long way:

• Keep the cooling system healthy—fresh coolant, no leaks, proper bleed—so the ECT reads accurately.
• Check connectors and looms under the bonnet for corrosion, oil soak and brittle clips, especially around the thermostat housing and airbox/MAF.
• If replacing the ECT, fit the correct sensor for ECU vs gauge, use the specified seal/O-ring, and torque to workshop manual spec. Always bleed the cooling system after.
• For IAT/MAF, avoid oiled filters and clean the MAF gently with proper MAF cleaner only.

Signs a temp sensor’s on the fritz include hard cold starts, surging idle, poor fuel economy, the thermo fans running constantly, erratic temp gauge, or a CEL with codes like P0115 (ECT circuit) or P0113 (IAT high input). Don’t ignore them—incorrect temperature data can cook fuel economy, stress the transmission, and in worst cases risk overheating. A scan with live data will confirm readings before parts are swapped. Using quality OEM-equivalent sensors and following the Pajero workshop procedure keeps this tough 4x4 tracking sweet for many more kilometres.

Popular questions about 2001 Mitsubishi Pajero temperature sensors

Where is the engine coolant temperature sensor on a 2001 Pajero?

On most NM/NP Pajeros, the ECU’s ECT sensor sits on or near the thermostat housing/water outlet at the front/top of the engine. Many models also have a separate, nearby sender for the dash gauge. Access is from under the bonnet, on the V6 it’s near the upper radiator hose outlet, and on the 4M41 diesel it’s in a similar housing position.

Do temperature sensors need routine replacement?

They’re not a scheduled replacement item. Replace when faulty, contaminated, or physically damaged. During regular servicing, inspect connectors and cooling system condition. If diagnostics show incorrect readings or related fault codes, test the sensor against workshop specs and replace as needed.

Can a bad temperature sensor cause poor fuel economy or hard starts?

Yes. An ECT stuck “cold” enriches the mixture and bumps idle, burning more fuel. One stuck “hot” can cause hard cold starts and pinging. An IAT fault can also skew fueling. Scanning live data when the engine is cold and then at operating temp will quickly highlight out-of-range values.