Parts for your 2008 Honda Elysion-Temperature sensors

2008 Honda Elysion temperature-sensors

Temperature sensors are absolutely fitted to the 2008 Honda Elysion and they’re central to how the van runs and keeps its cool. Honda’s factory workshop literature for the Elysion RR1–RR6 series (covering the 2.4L K24A and V6 J30A/J35A), along with the Electrical Troubleshooting Manual, lists multiple temperature inputs: the engine coolant temperature (ECT, often labelled TW sensor), intake air temperature (IAT), automatic transmission fluid temperature, in-car and ambient air temperature sensors for climate control, plus the A/C evaporator temperature sensor. These match common Honda layouts of the era and are used across powertrain and HVAC control.

What do they do? The ECT sensor tells the ECU how hot the engine is so it can manage fuel, ignition timing, idle speed, cooling fans and even the transmission shift strategy. The IAT fine-tunes fuelling with air density changes. Ambient, in-car and evaporator sensors let the climate system keep the cabin comfy without fogging or over-chilling. When one goes out, the vehicle can run rich, idle roughly, mis-report on the dash, shift harshly or lose consistent A/C performance.

For servicing a 2008 Elysion, it’s worth giving these sensors a once-over. Check connectors for corrosion or coolant wicking, make sure harness clips are intact, and scan live data with an OBD2 tool to confirm readings track realistically from cold start to operating temperature. Keep fresh, correct-spec coolant to protect the ECT sensor and thermostat housing from corrosion. Clean the IAT gently when replacing the air filter (use MAF-safe cleaner), and make sure the grille area around the ambient sensor isn’t blocked with leaves or road grime.

If replacement is needed, go for quality OEM-equivalent parts. On K24A models the ECT is typically on or near the thermostat housing by the upper radiator hose, on the J-series V6 it’s near the water outlet at the front bank. Always depressurise and cool the system first, catch and refill coolant, and bleed air per Honda procedure to avoid hot spots. For climate sensors, verify fan operation and cabin filters so you’re not masking a simple airflow issue. After any sensor work, clear codes and recheck live data to confirm the fix. Done right, these little sensors save fuel, protect the engine and keep the Elysion happy on long Kiwi and Aussie road trips.

• Common symptoms: hard cold starts, erratic temp gauge, cooling fans stuck on/off, poor fuel economy, limp shifts, weak or cycling A/C.
• Typical fault codes: ECT P0115–P0119, IAT P0110/P0112/P0113.

FAQs

Where is the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor on a 2008 Honda Elysion?
On the 2.4L K24A it’s usually threaded into or beside the thermostat housing near the upper radiator hose. On the V6 J-series it’s typically by the front bank water outlet. A torch and a mirror help, look for a two-pin connector on a small brass or plastic-bodied sensor.

Can a bad temperature sensor cause overheating or fan problems?
Yes. If the ECT reads cold when hot, fans may not engage and fuelling can go rich. If it reads hot when cold, fans may run constantly and warm-up will suffer. Always verify the sensor, wiring, thermostat and coolant level—faulty inputs and low coolant can produce similar symptoms.

Do temperature sensors have a set replacement interval?
No fixed interval. Replace on failure, contamination or damage. Inspect at each coolant or air filter service, clean the IAT if dirty, and consider replacing a tired ECT when you’re already doing cooling system work, especially if there’s corrosion at the housing.