AutoCodes.com
Login with Google
AutoCodes – Ford – P0116 Ford

P0116 Ford 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 Ford 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.
Save to My Repairs My Repairs
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 27,980
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
What is this?
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 22, 2023
💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code P0116 Ford 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 Ford - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance - AutoCodes.com
P0116 Ford Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance
What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0116 Ford?

  • 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 Ford?

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 Ford 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 Ford code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0116 Ford code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0116 Ford code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Ford Models

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 Ford Code

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

- Common symptoms include issues with the engine's performance, poor fuel efficiency, rough idling, and potential overheating.

2. What is the typical cause of OBDII code P0116 in a Ford vehicle?

- The most common cause of code P0116 is a faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor, which may be malfunctioning or sending incorrect readings to the engine control module.

3. How can I diagnose the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor to confirm if it's causing code P0116 in my Ford?

- You can use a multimeter to test the ECT sensor's resistance and compare the readings to specifications provided by the manufacturer to determine if it is functioning properly.

4. What are some tips for repairing OBDII code P0116 related to the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor in a Ford?

- To repair code P0116, consider replacing the faulty ECT sensor with a new one and ensure it is properly installed and connected to the vehicle's wiring harness.

5. Can a dirty or corroded ECT sensor connector cause OBDII code P0116 in a Ford?

- Yes, a dirty or corroded ECT sensor connector can lead to poor electrical connections, causing intermittent issues with the sensor and triggering code P0116 in the vehicle.

6. Are there any other potential causes of OBDII code P0116 besides a faulty ECT sensor in a Ford?

- Yes, other potential causes of code P0116 can include wiring issues, a malfunctioning engine control module, or problems with the cooling system itself.

7. Will driving with OBDII code P0116 in a Ford vehicle cause any long-term damage?

- Continuously driving with code P0116 may lead to poor engine performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential overheating issues, which can cause long-term damage if left unresolved.

8. Can resetting the OBDII code P0116 in a Ford vehicle temporarily fix the issue?

- Resetting the code may temporarily clear the check engine light, but if the underlying problem, such as a faulty ECT sensor, is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear.

9. How important is it to address OBDII code P0116 promptly in a Ford vehicle?

- It is crucial to address code P0116 promptly to prevent potential engine damage, ensure optimal performance, and maintain fuel efficiency in the vehicle.

10. Is it possible to prevent OBDII code P0116 from occurring in a Ford vehicle?

- Regular maintenance, including checking and replacing the ECT sensor as recommended by the manufacturer, can help prevent code P0116 and related issues in a Ford vehicle.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0116 Ford OBDII Code

Submit a New Comment

Code P0116 Ford comments

No comments found for this page.

AutoCodes App

Fix Your Car Smarter

Try the New AutoCodes App!

Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.

AutoCodes App on Google Play