AutoCodesFord – P0118 2010 Ford Fusion

P0118 2010 Ford Fusion 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 2010 Ford Fusion 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 3,936
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Aug 02, 2020
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Code P0118 2010 Ford Fusion 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 2010 Ford Fusion - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High - AutoCodes.com
P0118 2010 Ford Fusion Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0118 2010 Ford Fusion?

  • 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 2010 Ford Fusion?

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 P0118 2010 Ford Fusion 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 2010 Ford Fusion Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0118 mean on a 2010 Ford Fusion?

P0118 indicates an "Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High," meaning the sensor is reporting an abnormally high voltage, often due to a fault or wiring issue.

2. What are the symptoms of code P0118 in a 2010 Ford Fusion?

Common symptoms include poor fuel efficiency, rough idle, difficulty starting, engine overheating, or the cooling fan running constantly.

3. What causes the P0118 code in a 2010 Ford Fusion?

Possible causes include a faulty engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor, damaged wiring, corroded connectors, or an issue with the vehicle's PCM (Powertrain Control Module).

4. Can I drive my 2010 Ford Fusion with the P0118 code?

Driving with P0118 is not recommended, as it can lead to overheating, poor performance, or engine damage due to incorrect temperature readings.

5. How do you diagnose the P0118 code on a 2010 Ford Fusion?

Use an OBDII scanner to confirm the code, inspect the ECT sensor for damage, check wiring and connectors for corrosion or breaks, and measure sensor resistance with a multimeter.

6. How do you fix the P0118 code on a 2010 Ford Fusion?

Repairs typically involve replacing the ECT sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning corroded connectors, or, in rare cases, reprogramming or replacing the PCM.

7. Where is the engine coolant temperature sensor located on a 2010 Ford Fusion?

The ECT sensor is usually located near the thermostat housing, connected to the engine block.

8. How much does it cost to fix a P0118 code on a 2010 Ford Fusion?

The cost can range from $50 to $200, depending on whether you need to replace the ECT sensor, repair wiring, or address additional issues.

9. Can a bad thermostat cause the P0118 code on a 2010 Ford Fusion?

While unlikely, a stuck thermostat causing irregular coolant flow may indirectly contribute to temperature sensor issues, though the sensor itself is usually at fault.

10. Will clearing the P0118 code fix the issue on a 2010 Ford Fusion?

Clearing the code may temporarily turn off the check engine light, but the underlying issue must be addressed to prevent the code from returning.

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