Check engine light-coolant temp. or sensor

[woodchuck]

My 04 gasoline engine sedona's check engine light came on this morning and I had Advance Auto Parts check the code. Based on the reading she said it could be the thermostat trying to stick or the temp sensor bad.

The temp. outside was 30 degrees this morning and the engine warmed up normally according to the dash gauge. Heater worked as always and never did overheat. needle stayed at the normal position. I haven't looked yet but I intend to check the wire connection to the sensor if I can find it, but with everything working normally as best I can tell, what could be the reason for the alarm. Is there just one sensor for the alarm and the gauge.

[ron1004]

There's two temp sensors - one for the gauge (single contact) and one for the ECU (two contact).
If the warm-up time seems normal and the operating temp according to the gauge, then it may be a problem with the ECU's temp sensor - both temp sensors are mounted close to the thermostat housing.