AutoCodes – Ford – P0116 2018 Ford F150

P0116 2018 Ford F150 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance

Quick Answer

The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor is a thermistor device in which resistance changes with temperature. Common causes include Low engine coolant level, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor, Faulty engine coolant thermostat. Severity is High - diagnose this code as soon as possible. Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

What it means: P0116 2018 Ford F150 indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance.
Common causes: Common causes include Low engine coolant level, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor, Faulty engine coolant thermostat.
Severity: High - diagnose this code as soon as possible.
Can I drive?: Driving is not recommended if the warning light is flashing, the engine runs poorly, or safety-related symptoms are present.

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Code Popularity 237

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Intermediate (2 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 22, 2023

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0116 2018 Ford F150 Description

The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor is a thermistor device in which resistance changes with temperature. The resistance of a thermistor decreases as the temperature increases, and the resistance increases as the temperature decreases. The varying resistance changes the voltage drop across the sensor pins and provides electrical signals to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) corresponding to temperature.
Thermistor-type sensors are considered passive sensors. A passive sensor is connected to a voltage divider network so varying the resistance of the passive sensor causes a variation in total current flow. The voltage that is dropped across a fixed resistor (pull-up resister) in series with the sensor resistor determines the voltage signal at the PCM. This voltage signal is equal to the reference voltage minus the voltage drop across the fixed resistor.
The ECT Sensor is located in an engine coolant passage and measures the engine coolant temperature. The PCM uses the engine coolant temperature input for fuel control and for cooling fan control. The ECT Sensor can be a threaded or twist lock type.
This Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is set when the engine coolant temperature or cylinder head temperature value is higher than the calibrated value and could prevent one or more On Board Diagnostic (OBD) monitors from completing. The PCM runs this logic after an engine off and a calibrated soak period (typically 6 hours). This soak period allows the intake air temperature and the engine coolant temperature or cylinder head temperature to stabilize and not differ by greater than a calibrated value. This DTC sets when all of the following conditions are met: The engine coolant temperature at engine start exceeds the intake air temperature at engine start by greater than a calibrated value, typically 17°C (30°F), the engine coolant temperature exceeds a calibrated value, typically 107°C (225°F), the fuel system, heated oxygen and misfire monitors have not completed, snd the calibrated time to set this DTC has expired.

OBDII Code P0116 2018 Ford F150 - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance - AutoCodes.com — P0116 2018 Ford F150 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0116 2018 Ford F150?

Low engine coolant level
Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor
Faulty engine coolant thermostat
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0116 2018 Ford F150?

Review the 'Possible Causes' above and visually examine the corresponding wiring harness and connectors. Check for damaged components and inspect connector pins for signs of being broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded.

What does this mean?

Code Tech Notes

Start by checking for coolant leaks, and if there are no leaks, the thermostat might be stuck closed and need replacement. If the problem persists, change the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0116 2018 Ford F150 code, it typically requires 1.0 hour of labor. Rates vary by location, vehicle, and shop. Many shops charge between $80–$150 per hour; dealerships and metro areas may be higher, independents may be lower.

Need more information about the P0116 2018 Ford F150 code?

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About the author: William Orellana is a Master Mechanic and Mechanical Engineer with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Learn more about his background.

Frequently Asked Questions about P0116 2018 Ford F150 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0116 in a 2018 Ford F150?

The common symptoms of OBDII code P0116 in a 2018 Ford F150 include issues with the engine's performance, rough idling, a decrease in fuel efficiency, and possible overheating.

2. What can cause the OBDII code P0116 to trigger in a 2018 Ford F150?

The OBDII code P0116 in a 2018 Ford F150 is typically triggered by a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor, a damaged sensor wiring harness, or issues with the sensor's electrical connections.

3. How can I diagnose the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance issue in my 2018 Ford F150?

To diagnose the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance issue in a 2018 Ford F150, you can use an OBDII scanner to read the trouble codes, visually inspect the sensor and its connections for any signs of damage, and test the sensor's resistance and voltage output.

4. What are some repair tips for fixing the OBDII code P0116 in a 2018 Ford F150?

Repair tips for fixing the OBDII code P0116 in a 2018 Ford F150 include replacing the engine coolant temperature sensor, checking and repairing any damaged wiring harness, ensuring proper electrical connections, and clearing the trouble codes with an OBDII scanner.

5. Can driving with the OBDII code P0116 in a 2018 Ford F150 cause further damage?

Continuing to drive with the OBDII code P0116 in a 2018 Ford F150 can potentially lead to engine overheating, reduced fuel efficiency, and further damage to engine components, so it is recommended to address the issue promptly.

6. How important is the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor in a 2018 Ford F150?

The Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor is crucial in a 2018 Ford F150 as it helps the engine control module monitor and regulate the engine's temperature, ensuring optimal performance and preventing overheating.

7. Is it safe to clear the OBDII code P0116 in a 2018 Ford F150 without fixing the underlying issue?

Clearing the OBDII code P0116 without fixing the underlying issue in a 2018 Ford F150 may temporarily turn off the check engine light, but it will not resolve the problem causing the code to trigger, potentially leading to further issues down the line.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair the OBDII code P0116 in a 2018 Ford F150?

The cost of repairing the OBDII code P0116 in a 2018 Ford F150 can vary depending on the root cause of the issue, but it generally ranges from $100 to $300 for parts and labor at a dealership or a trusted mechanic.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast repair the OBDII code P0116 in a 2018 Ford F150?

A DIY enthusiast with the necessary tools and automotive knowledge can potentially repair the OBDII code P0116 in a 2018 Ford F150 by replacing the engine coolant temperature sensor and checking the wiring harness and connections for any issues.

10. How often should the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor be replaced in a 2018 Ford F150?

The Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor in a 2018 Ford F150 does not have a specific replacement interval; however, it is recommended to replace it if it fails or shows signs of malfunction to ensure the engine operates efficiently.