AutoCodes – Ford – P0118 1999 Ford F150

P0118 1999 Ford F150 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High

Quick Answer

The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor is used to detect the engine coolant temperature. Common causes include Low engine coolant level, Faulty engine coolant thermostat, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor or Cylinder Head Temperature (CHT) Sensor. 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: P0118 1999 Ford F150 indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High.
Common causes: Common causes include Low engine coolant level, Faulty engine coolant thermostat, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor or Cylinder Head Temperature (CHT) Sensor.
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 6,760

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 Aug 02, 2020

Description
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0118 1999 Ford F150 Description

The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor is used to detect the engine coolant temperature. The sensor modifies a voltage signal from the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The modified signal returns to the PCM as the engine coolant temperature input. The sensor uses a thermistor which is sensitive to the change in temperature. The electrical resistance of the thermistor decreases as temperature increases. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) indicates the sensor signal is greater than the self-test maximum. The ECT sensor maximum is 4.6 volts or -50°C (-58°F).

OBDII Code P0118 1999 Ford F150 - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High - AutoCodes.com — P0118 1999 Ford F150 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0118 1999 Ford F150?

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

How to Fix the DTC P0118 1999 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 needs 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 P0118 1999 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.

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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 P0118 1999 Ford F150 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0118 in a 1999 Ford F150?

The common symptoms of P0118 in a 1999 Ford F150 include engine overheating, poor fuel economy, rough idling, and the Check Engine light illuminating.

2. What causes the OBDII code P0118 to appear in a 1999 Ford F150?

The main cause of P0118 in a 1999 Ford F150 is a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor or a problem with the sensor circuit, leading to high voltage readings.

3. How can I diagnose the root cause of OBDII code P0118 in my 1999 Ford F150?

To diagnose P0118, you can use a multimeter to test the engine coolant temperature sensor's resistance, check for any damaged wiring or connectors, and inspect the sensor for any signs of physical damage.

4. Can a bad thermostat trigger the OBDII code P0118 in a 1999 Ford F150?

Yes, a malfunctioning thermostat can cause the engine coolant temperature to read higher than normal, triggering code P0118 in a 1999 Ford F150.

5. What are some repair tips for resolving OBDII code P0118 in a 1999 Ford F150?

Repair tips for P0118 include replacing the engine coolant temperature sensor, checking and repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, and ensuring the cooling system is functioning properly.

6. Is it safe to continue driving my 1999 Ford F150 with OBDII code P0118 present?

It is not recommended to drive your 1999 Ford F150 with code P0118 as it can lead to engine overheating and potential damage. It's best to address the issue promptly.

7. Can a simple reset of the Check Engine light clear OBDII code P0118 in a 1999 Ford F150?

Resetting the Check Engine light may temporarily clear the code, but if the underlying issue causing P0118 is not resolved, the code is likely to reappear.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0118 in a 1999 Ford F150?

The cost of repairing P0118 in a 1999 Ford F150 can vary depending on the specific cause and whether you choose to DIY or seek professional help. Costs may range from $50 to $200+.

9. Can extreme weather conditions affect the triggering of OBDII code P0118 in a 1999 Ford F150?

Extreme weather conditions, such as very high or low temperatures, can impact the engine coolant temperature readings and potentially lead to the activation of code P0118 in a 1999 Ford F150.

10. How often should the engine coolant temperature sensor be replaced in a 1999 Ford F150 to prevent OBDII code P0118?

The engine coolant temperature sensor should be inspected regularly during routine maintenance checks and replaced if any signs of malfunction are detected to prevent the recurrence of code P0118 in a 1999 Ford F150.