Dear robertmfranklin,

Hope you're well. If the temperature gauge in the instrument cluster is not working, replacing the sensor does not require removal of the manifold. That sensor is next to the knock sensor, i.e., towards the front of the head, on the driver's side (North American models). You probably will need to remove the idle air control motor, which is affixed to a bracket, with two 10mm bolts (if I recall correctly). Removing the IACV requires loosening two hose clamps. The wiring connector can be left.

Once you can reach the sensor, compress the electrical connector release and wiggle the connector, gently, from the sensor. You can then use an open-end wrench to remove the sensor. There's no need to drain coolant: perhaps a tablespoon of coolant will dribble out. Put in the new sensor, and tighten gently with the wrench.

When you re-seat the electrical connector on the sensor, be sure the tubular metal contacts, that slide over the sensor's tubular "pins" actually do slide onto the pins. If the housing has deteriorated, you may need to seat each wire's contacts onto its pin.

If the engine coolant temperature sensor - which sends a signal to the Engine control Unit (ECU) - needs to be removed, then the intake manifold will need to be removed. There should be a diagnostic code on Port A2. The code is 1-2-3.

Please post back with any codes.

Hope this helps.

Yours faithfully,

Spook