Check Engine - ECU Code 21

I've recently got the check engine light on a few different occasions. Usually within the first couple minutes after starting.

Code 21 - Water Temperature Sensor: Abnormal signal from water temperature sensor.

The code was thrown both before and after I did my timing belt, seals, water pump, thermostat, etc. Unfortunately, my temperature gauge is currently crippled (read: broken). Does anybody here know what might throw this code?

The car doesn't appear to be overheating, and I don't appear to be losing any fluids...

[SVXer95]

Change the temp sensor, its only about $20. Very easy to get to as well.

I've got part number 22630AA041. That's it, right?

From the diagram, it looks as though it's at the rear of the driver's side on the block. Does anybody have some suggestions on changing it out?

Thanks for the help.

[SVXer95]

Yes, that is the one. Make sure you change it while the engine is cold, otherwise coolant will be everywhere. No tricks for this one, it is pretty straight forward. Just unplug it, unbolt it, and reinstall. Also take a look at this thread before jumping to any conclusions. My guess is that this will solve your temp gauge problem.

Originally posted by SVXer95
Yes, that is the one. Make sure you change it while the engine is cold, otherwise coolant will be everywhere. No tricks for this one, it is pretty straight forward. Just unplug it, unbolt it, and reinstall. Also take a look at this thread before jumping to any conclusions. My guess is that this will solve your temp gauge problem.

Thanks. I'll be replacing the sensor fairly soon, as the code keeps coming up. Not everytime I drive, strangely enough... But it does show every once in a while.

And about the gauge: I know that it is in fact broken. There is a small resistor on the copper wire pack for the gauge. When I installed my new gauge faces, the resistor broke. I just need to pull the gauge and go to Radioshack, I suppose. It's just so tedious to pull the gauges that I keep holding back on it.