If you’ve noticed a check engine light on your Volvo and the ECM stores code 123 for the engine coolant sensor (ECT), here’s your answer! The ECT resides right underneath the thermostat on these vehicles which has been known to set a code for the ECT itself. The root cause is normally a thermostat that won’t fully close. The ECM looks for a 1 degree rise in temperature every 4 seconds as the vehicle goes through the warm up cycle. If this temperature increase is not seen code 123 is set. When the thermostat does not fully close, some coolant slips past it instead of warming up with the engine. This moving coolant does not stay still long enough to heat up in the specified amount of time and the threshold is breached, setting the code.
Replacing the thermostat solves the problem, although most repair facilities will recommend the ECT as well for good measure.
Aftermarket parts are a reasonably priced and good alternative to OE products. We often supply aftermarket products in place of OE parts that are no longer available as well.
Some items will be better than stock or considered an upgrade from the OE design in the aftermarket brand.
Other items will work as a less expensive alternative to stock.
We will not sell a product that we do not believe in, so rest assured you are fine with the aftermarket brand in most applications!
If you have any questions, contact our customer service team to advise on the best aftermarket products for your Volvo.