In most cases laboratory methods are not needed. These sensors are made around a component which is very reliable in itself, a thermistor, but corrosion and packaging issues eventually open the circuit with age and temp cycles, so instead of being a "little off" they die altogether.

Just be aware there are two types. The black ECT sensor you would find in a 900 has two identical thermistors. One from each pin to case ground. Resistance should agree with the chart within 20%. The blue sensors from the older cars have only one sensing element across the pins.

Water, oil, whatever.


--
Art Benstein near Baltimore


"It could be said that burning wood for home heating is choosing 'a way of life,' rather than just choosing a fuel." -John Siegenthaler