AutoCodesFord – P0118 2017 Ford F150

P0118 2017 Ford F150 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High

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
P0118 2017 Ford F150 indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High.
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.
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Code Popularity 674
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 22, 2023
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Code P0118 2017 Ford F150 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 ECT Sensor signal is greater than the self-test maximum. The ECT Sensor signal maximum is -50° C (-58° F).
OBDII Code P0118 2017 Ford F150 - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High - AutoCodes.com
P0118 2017 Ford F150 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0118 2017 Ford F150?

  • 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 P0118 2017 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.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0118 2017 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.

Need more information about the P0118 2017 Ford F150 code?

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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 2017 Ford F150 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0118 on a 2017 Ford F150?

- Common symptoms include the engine running hotter than normal, the temperature gauge reading high, and the Check Engine light being illuminated.

2. What does the OBDII code P0118 "Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High" mean for a 2017 Ford F150?

- This code indicates that the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor 1 is sending a voltage signal that is higher than the expected range.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0118 on a 2017 Ford F150?

- Possible causes include a faulty ECT sensor, a damaged sensor wiring harness, a corroded connector, or issues with the engine coolant temperature circuit.

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0118 on my 2017 Ford F150?

- You can diagnose the code by checking the ECT sensor for proper operation, inspecting the wiring for any damage, and using a multimeter to test the sensor's resistance and voltage output.

5. Can driving with OBDII code P0118 on a 2017 Ford F150 cause further damage?

- While driving with this code may not immediately harm the vehicle, ignoring it can lead to overheating issues and potential engine damage over time.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0118 on a 2017 Ford F150?

- Repair involves replacing the Engine Coolant Temperature sensor if faulty, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, and clearing the trouble codes with a diagnostic scanner.

7. Is it safe to continue driving my 2017 Ford F150 with the OBDII code P0118 active?

- It is generally not recommended to drive with this code active, as it can lead to inaccurate temperature readings and potential engine overheating.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the OBDII code P0118 on a 2017 Ford F150?

- A DIY enthusiast with the necessary tools and knowledge can often fix this issue by replacing the ECT sensor and addressing any wiring problems.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0118 on a 2017 Ford F150 at a mechanic?

- The cost of repairs can vary depending on the labor rates and parts prices, but replacing the ECT sensor and addressing associated issues may cost a few hundred dollars.

10. Will resetting the OBDII code P0118 on a 2017 Ford F150 make it go away permanently?

- Resetting the code may temporarily turn off the Check Engine light, but if the underlying issue is not fixed, the code is likely to reappear after driving the vehicle.

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