How many coolant temperature sensors does the Malibu have and where are they located?

[DiAbel]

The Malibu has one coolant temperature sensor, located at the connection point between the upper hose and the cylinder head or at the thermostat. A temperature sensor (temperature-transducer) refers to a sensor that can detect temperature and convert it into an available output signal. Temperature sensors are the core component of temperature measurement instruments, with a wide variety of types. According to the measurement method, they can be divided into contact and non-contact categories, and based on the characteristics of sensor materials and electronic components, they are classified into thermistors and thermocouples. The functions and composition of the coolant temperature sensor are as follows: 1. Function: The coolant temperature sensor is installed on the engine block or cylinder head water jacket, in direct contact with the coolant, to measure the temperature of the engine coolant. The electronic control unit detects the temperature of the engine coolant based on this change—the lower the temperature, the greater the resistance; conversely, the smaller the resistance. The electronic control unit uses this change to measure the engine coolant temperature as a correction signal for fuel injection and ignition timing. 2. Composition of the automotive coolant temperature sensor: Its interior consists of a semiconductor thermistor—the lower the temperature, the greater the resistance; conversely, the smaller the resistance. The electronic control unit uses this change to measure the engine coolant temperature as a correction signal for fuel injection and ignition timing.

[LaCarlos]

I've been driving a Chevrolet Malibu for several years. Generally, there's only one coolant temperature sensor, located in the engine bay, mounted on the upper part of the engine near the intake manifold. When you pop the hood, you'll see a small square box connected to wires. This component monitors the coolant temperature. If it fails, the temperature gauge on the dashboard will give inaccurate readings, and the engine might overheat or even stall, which is quite dangerous. I remember one time when my temperature gauge stopped working—the mechanic found that dust accumulation had caused a short circuit in the sensor. After cleaning it, everything worked fine again. During routine maintenance, it's a good idea to wipe off any oil or grime around the sensor and keep the wiring dry to prevent minor issues and extend its lifespan. Don't underestimate it—the health of your engine depends on it!

[VanAngelo]

Speaking of the Malibu's coolant temperature sensor, it is typically a single unit located on top of the engine, usually near the thermostat or a hose connection. Its role is like a sentinel, reporting engine temperature to the car's computer. When functioning normally, the engine runs smoothly; if faulty, it may cause hard starting or a sudden spike in fuel consumption. As someone who enjoys tinkering with cars, I always check by first turning off the power and unplugging the connector to see if the contacts are oxidized. The location isn't hard to find—it's in the front center area after opening the hood. For safety, it's best to have a technician test the sensor's working condition every six months to avoid unexpected breakdowns on the road. Simple maintenance can save you from costly repairs.

[Games]

I drive a Malibu, and there's only one coolant temperature sensor located on top of the engine. It's positioned at the front of the engine bay, near the radiator area. After purchasing the car, I researched it – this sensor monitors coolant temperature. If it fails, the dashboard temperature gauge won't move, affecting driving judgment. I've done simple checks myself: pop the hood, and you can feel the small component connected by wires. Once I found dirty contact points and cleaned them with a cloth. While no professional tools are needed, I recommend having mechanics check the sensor's stability during regular maintenance to prevent minor issues from escalating. The location is easy to find, even beginners can quickly learn to inspect it.