Quick take
Which engine coolant temperature sensor should you pick when the four new options here range from $6.99 to $20.33? The answer depends on your GM-family vehicle and how much part detail you want. These sensors send coolant temperature data to the engine computer, affecting fuel mixture and cooling fan operation, so fit is more important than the lowest price. All four are new parts. One includes a "Check Fitment Chart" instruction, another is described as a direct replacement, and the other two give you different levels of cross-reference detail. Your first step is to find your OE/OEM or interchange number and then decide which product gives you the most useful cross-reference for that number.
Listed-price comparison
Here is how the four listed prices stack up, using the price bar visual from the product entries.
| Listed price | Price bar | Product |
|---|---|---|
| USD 6.99 | Coolant Temperature Sensor Water Temp Sender | |
| USD 10.35 | New GM OEM Coolant Temperature Sensor 15326386 | |
| USD 16.99 | Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Carquest WTC1004 | |
| USD 20.33 | Herko Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor ECT454 |
Decision matrix
Use this quick decision guide to narrow down by need.
| If you need... | Pick... | Why |
|---|---|---|
| A cross-reference set that includes OE/OEM 12146312 | Coolant Temperature Sensor Water Temp Sender | It crosses to 12146312, 805218T, and 805218. |
| A GM OEM part number | New GM OEM Coolant Temperature Sensor 15326386 | It is labeled Genuine OEM and has a GM part number. |
| Connector and terminal details | Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Carquest WTC1004 | It includes a GTIN, black connector, and blade/bullet terminal type. |
| 1994-2003 GMC/Chevrolet/Isuzu coverage | Herko Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor ECT454 | The title covers those nameplates and the product includes a fitment chart to check. |
Product notes
Herko Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor ECT454
This product pairs a Herko Automotive ECT454 sensor with a 1994-2003 GMC, Chevrolet, and Isuzu application tag, so it's the one to look at if your search spans those nameplates. It is a new part, and the interchange numbers include 1T1064, TMS375, TS375, TU228, and TU230. The included item is the ECT454 sensor itself. The manufacturer warranty is listed, which is useful if you want that documentation before buying. The trade-off is the "Check Fitment Chart" instruction: this sensor appears in different terminal/pigtail configurations depending on the engine, so you need to confirm your exact application from the fitment chart before ordering.
Coolant Temperature Sensor Water Temp Sender for GMC Chevrolet Pontiac Cadillac
For a sensor with a practical cross-reference set, this water temp sender is a very practical pick. The product carries OE/OEM number 12146312 as well as interchange numbers 805218T and 805218, and it also shows alternates such as 1236302, 1338450, and 15326386. That makes it easier to cross-check against your old part before you order. It includes one sensor, and the manufacturer warranty is listed as one year. The catch is the broad nameplate coverage: without a model-year breakdown in the title, you'll want to verify that your Pontiac or Cadillac uses the 12146312 connector style and thread before committing.
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Carquest WTC1004
This one comes from Carquest and gives you more concrete part details: a WTC1004 part number, a GTIN, and a black connector with a blade-and-bullet terminal type. Those specifics make it easier to confirm the physical connector style you need. It is placed in the engine compartment, and it includes a sensor type designation of "Temperature Sensor". If your old sensor has that terminal layout, this is a solid match on paper. The limitation is the product's own advice: it says to double-check fitment before you buy, since the sensor is shown to fit a wide range of vehicles. Use the part number and your vehicle's engine details to close that loop.
New GM OEM Coolant Temperature Sensor 15326386
For shoppers who want an OEM part number, this new sensor is labeled GM OEM with part number 15326386 and a "Genuine OEM: Yes" attribute. It is described as a direct replacement for Chevy, Pontiac, Buick, Cadillac, and GMC applications, and the interchange list includes several common GM numbers like 12146312, 19187357, and 25036708. It also says the sensor is from an original GM OEM bulk box and comes in a sealed bag. That makes it a practical choice if you are fine with a bulk-box part, but not ideal if you need a retail-boxed presentation. The part itself is the focus here.
Final recommendation by use case
- For a broad GM-family fit with a useful cross-reference set: Choose the Coolant Temperature Sensor Water Temp Sender if you want OE/OEM 12146312 and alternates like 15326386.
- For a GM OEM part number: Choose the New GM OEM Coolant Temperature Sensor 15326386 if you want a part labeled Genuine OEM.
- For connector-level detail: Choose the Carquest WTC1004 if you need the black connector and blade/bullet terminal type spelled out.
- For nameplate coverage: Choose the Herko ECT454 if your vehicle falls in the 1994-2003 GMC/Chevrolet/Isuzu range and you are ready to check the fitment chart.
