Parts for your 2012 Honda Elysion-Temperature sensors

2012 Honda Elysion Temperature Sensors

Temperature sensors absolutely are used on the 2012 Honda Elysion. Honda’s workshop literature for the Elysion and related K‑series/J‑series platforms from this era (PGM‑FI/ECM, AT, and HVAC sections of the service and electrical manuals) lists several temperature sensors: engine coolant temperature (ECT), intake air temperature (IAT), automatic transmission fluid temperature (ATF temp), ambient/outside air temperature, evaporator and in‑car cabin sensors for climate control. They feed the engine computer and climate system so the van runs smoothly, shifts smartly, and keeps the cabin comfy.

On this model, the ECT sensor is the big one. It tells the ECU how hot the engine is so it can sort cold starts, idle speed, ignition timing, fuel trims, cooling fan control and even VTEC engagement. The IAT helps fine‑tune fuelling as the weather swings from a frosty morning to a scorching arvo. The transmission temperature sensor ensures shift timing and line pressure suit the fluid’s temperature, helping longevity. The HVAC sensors keep the air‑con from icing up and make the auto climate behave properly.

These sensors aren’t “replace by date” items, but they do like a bit of attention during servicing:

• Cooling system: stick with the correct Honda‑spec long‑life coolant and replace it on schedule, clean coolant helps the ECT read accurately and prevents corrosion around the sensor boss.
• Connectors and wiring: under the bonnet, check the ECT and IAT plugs for green crust, oil, or brittle looms near the thermostat housing and intake ducting. Fix any weeping coolant that can wick into connectors.
• Air intake: if the IAT is in or near the MAF/MAP, clean the sensor carefully with proper MAF cleaner—no touching the element—and make sure the air filter and ducting seal well.
• HVAC: keep the cabin filter fresh and the little aspirator grille clear so the in‑car sensor reads correctly, make sure the outside sensor area in the front bumper isn’t packed with road grime.
• ATF: use the right Honda ATF and change it as recommended, healthy fluid helps the ATF temp sensor report consistently.

Common clues a temp sensor is on the way out include hard cold starts, high idle, the radiator fans running constantly, rich fuel smell, dodgy gauge readings, or a check engine light with codes like P0116–P0119 or P0128. Replacing an ECT is straightforward: let the engine go stone‑cold, drain enough coolant to drop the level, unplug the sensor, swap it with a quality unit (observe any sealing washer/sealant requirements and torque spec), refill with the correct coolant, bleed the system with the heater on hot, clear codes, and road‑test. A genuine or premium aftermarket sensor is worth it—cheapies can drift and waste fuel over kilometres.

Where is the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor on a 2012 Elysion?

It’s typically threaded into or near the thermostat housing on the cylinder head side, facing the radiator hose area. Access is under the bonnet from the top, on some engines, removing the intake duct makes it much easier to see and reach. Always work on a cold engine to avoid burns.

Do temp sensors need coding after replacement?

No special coding is required. After fitting, top up and bleed coolant if you replaced the ECT, then clear any stored fault codes. The ECU will relearn trims as you drive, a short mixed road test is usually all it needs.

What fault codes point to a bad temperature sensor on this model?

For the ECT you’ll often see P0116, P0117, P0118 or P0128. An IAT issue may raise P0112 or P0113. Transmission temperature faults can log manufacturer‑specific AT codes. Always confirm with live data—if the reported temperature is implausible for the conditions, the sensor or its wiring needs attention.