AutoCodes – Ford – P0118 2001 Ford F150

P0118 2001 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 2001 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 5,104

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 2001 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 2001 Ford F150 - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High - AutoCodes.com — P0118 2001 Ford F150 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0118 2001 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 2001 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 2001 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 2001 Ford F150 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0118 in a 2001 Ford F150?

The common symptoms of code P0118 in a 2001 Ford F150 include engine overheating, rough idling, poor fuel economy, and the check engine light illuminating.

2. What does the OBDII code P0118 indicate in a 2001 Ford F150?

Code P0118 indicates a problem with the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor circuit registering a high voltage signal, often leading to incorrect temperature readings.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0118 in a 2001 Ford F150?

Possible causes of code P0118 in a 2001 Ford F150 include a faulty ECT sensor, a wiring issue in the ECT sensor circuit, a corroded connector, or a problem with the engine control module.

4. How can I diagnose the cause of OBDII code P0118 in my 2001 Ford F150?

To diagnose code P0118, start by checking the ECT sensor for proper resistance and connection. Inspect the wiring for any damage or corrosion, and use a multimeter to test the voltage signals along the circuit.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P0118 in my 2001 Ford F150?

Repairing code P0118 typically involves replacing the faulty ECT sensor, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, and clearing the trouble code with an OBDII scanner.

6. Can I drive my 2001 Ford F150 with OBDII code P0118?

It is not recommended to drive your 2001 Ford F150 with code P0118, as it can lead to engine overheating, poor performance, and potential long-term damage. It is best to address the issue promptly.

7. Will resetting the OBDII code P0118 in my 2001 Ford F150 make it go away permanently?

Resetting the code may temporarily turn off the check engine light, but if the underlying issue causing code P0118 is not addressed, the code is likely to return.

8. How important is the Engine Coolant Temperature sensor for the proper functioning of a 2001 Ford F150?

The Engine Coolant Temperature sensor is crucial for the proper functioning of a 2001 Ford F150, as it helps regulate the engine temperature, fuel mixture, and ignition timing for optimal performance and efficiency.

9. Can a dirty or contaminated coolant affect the ECT sensor and trigger code P0118 in a 2001 Ford F150?

Yes, dirty or contaminated coolant can affect the ECT sensor readings, potentially leading to code P0118. It is important to maintain clean and proper coolant levels in your vehicle.

10. Is it possible for a loose or damaged radiator cap to cause OBDII code P0118 in a 2001 Ford F150?

While a loose or damaged radiator cap may not directly cause code P0118, it can lead to coolant loss or air pockets in the system, which can impact the ECT sensor readings and trigger the code.