The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor contains a resistance that changes with the engine coolant temperature, decreasing as the temperature increases and increasing as it decreases, giving a reference signal to the ECM that is related to the coolant temperature. This signal is used by the ECM to determine spark advance, E6R flow rate, air/fuel ratio and to determine engine temperature while also facilitating the operation of the temperature gauge by sending a signal to the instrument cluster. To test the sensor, set the key to the ON position with the engine OFF, measure the resistance across the terminals of the sensor and compare it to a reference chart to determine whether it is within specifications if not replace. For removal and installation, you first need to disconnect the negative battery cable - always take care to avoid any service to the radiator and cooling system when it is hot to avoid getting burns and risk of possible damage to pets from the ethylene glycol content - antifreeze. Drain the engine coolant and recycle, remove the parts that are blocking access to the sensor, disconnect the sensor, and unscrew it with the appropriate socket. To install, insert the new sensor in its mounting position and tighten it, reconnect the sensor, reconnect any parts that are removed, refill and bleed the cooling system, reconnect the negative battery cable, and finally check for any leaks.