coolant temperature sensor, 95 "outback", ej22

[michaelbteam]

I'm getting an engine check light and obd2 reading "engine coolant temp malfunction." The car runs fine and passes inspection, but I want to solve this issue, with any help I can get from this enthusiasic forum. I think I've located the coolant temp sensor buried under wires under the right intake manifold, and it seems I can a socket in there to remove it, but either I don't have the right size or I'm mistaken altogether. Any hints on solving this? What size socket, maybe 21MM? Thanks.

[outbackusjunkus]

Thats where mine was, really tucked in there. It was also a standard metric size (I can't remember which size...was '95 2.2). I had the new one ready to go (with a little thread sealant) to do the quick "switch-aroo" but was still surprised at how much coolent got out.

[EVOthis]

1995...well im not sure if you have the same thing as i do on my 96 legacy ej22 but i have 2 coolant temp sensors....1 for the gauge and 1 for the computer/fans whatever.....if you say your gauge is fine than i would replace the one for the computer......

[michaelbteam]

I found a thread that pictured a mini tear down of everything around the sensor to get at it. However, I just moved the air intake ducts and removed one 12mm. bolt holding a wire "carriage" mount so I could manuever an extension and 19mm. socket to remove the sensor. Not so difficult, but hard to find a way initially. Yes, quite a bit of coolant escaped, now to burp the baby again. Thanks for the response!