P0117 Ford Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low
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
- P0117 Ford indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low.
- 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.
Code P0117 Ford Description
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 ECT Sensor signal is less than the self-test minimum. The ECT Sensor signal minimum is 121°C (250°F).
What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0117 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 P0117 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.
Code Tech Notes
What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?
Labor: 1.0
To diagnose the P0117 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.
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Information for Specific Ford Models
- P0117 1997 Ford F150 — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
- P0117 1998 Ford F150 — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
- P0117 1999 Ford F150 — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
- P0117 2000 Ford F150 — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
- P0117 2001 Ford F150 — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
- P0117 2002 Ford F150 — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
- P0117 2003 Ford F150 — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
- P0117 2015 Ford F150 — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low
- P0117 2016 Ford F150 — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low
- P0117 2017 Ford F150 — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low
- P0117 2018 Ford F150 — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low
- P0117 2019 Ford F150 — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low
- P0117 2020 Ford F150 — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low
- P0117 2006 Ford Fusion — Engine Coolant Temperature Circuit Low Input
- P0117 2007 Ford Fusion — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
- P0117 2008 Ford Fusion — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
- P0117 2009 Ford Fusion — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
- P0117 2010 Ford Fusion — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
- P0117 2011 Ford Fusion — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
- P0117 2012 Ford Fusion — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low
Frequently Asked Questions about P0117 Ford Code
1. What does the OBDII code P0117 mean on a Ford vehicle?
P0117 indicates that the Engine Control Module (ECM) has detected a low voltage signal from the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor.
2. What are the common symptoms of the P0117 code in a Ford?
Symptoms may include poor fuel economy, rough idling, difficulty starting, the engine running hot or cold, and the Check Engine Light turning on.
3. What causes the P0117 code to be triggered?
Common causes include a faulty ECT sensor, damaged or corroded wiring, a short circuit, or a low level of engine coolant.
4. Can I drive my Ford with the P0117 code active?
Driving with this code is not recommended, as it may cause engine overheating or poor performance, which could lead to further damage.
5. How do I diagnose the P0117 code on my Ford?
Inspect the ECT sensor for damage, check wiring and connections for corrosion or shorts, and ensure proper coolant levels. Use a multimeter to test the sensor's resistance.
6. How do I fix the P0117 code in my Ford?
Repairs could involve replacing the ECT sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connections, or topping off low coolant.
7. Where is the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor located in a Ford vehicle?
The ECT sensor is typically located near the thermostat housing on the engine block or cylinder head.
8. Can a faulty thermostat cause the P0117 code?
Yes, a stuck-open or stuck-closed thermostat can affect coolant temperature readings and may contribute to this code.
9. How much does it cost to fix a P0117 code on a Ford?
Repair costs vary but typically range from $50 to $150 for an ECT sensor replacement, plus labor if done by a professional.
10. Will clearing the P0117 code solve the problem?
Clearing the code without addressing the underlying issue will not fix the problem, and the code is likely to return.
Discuss the causes and fixes for P0117 Ford OBDII Code
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I'm showing that code and I am still trying to diagnose it. Theres no water in radiator but theres coolant. Its overheating and its fluctuating. Between hot and normal. I replaced thermostat, seemed to fix it then a week later it starts overheating again. After reading all I could it comes back to a water pump cause theres no milky oil. If it's not head gasket I'm thinking its the pump?
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Let me check if I can find more information, what model and year is your vehicle?
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