Expert: Mike Evans - 7/19/2009

Question
i need a new engine coolant temp sensor but no one can find that part is there any other names it can be called?

Answer
    It depends on which piece you are trying to find.  There is the "coolant temperature sensor," which supplies the signal to the computer.  Then, there is the temperature sender, which operates either a gauge or an idiot light, depending on how the car is equipped.  Any competent parts man should be able to supply you with either one after a quick glance through his ignition parts catalog, or, more likely nowadays, a twirl through the menus on his computer.  But really, you shouldn't have any problem getting the right part, it's a very basic and frequent request at any parts store.  Now, if you are in Canada, your car should be equipped with a carburetor, and there won't be a computer or a "coolant temperature sensor," just the sender for the gauge (or light).