AutoCodesFord – P0118 2018 Ford F150

P0118 2018 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 2018 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 507
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 2018 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 2018 Ford F150 - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High - AutoCodes.com
P0118 2018 Ford F150 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0118 2018 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 2018 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 2018 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 2018 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 2018 Ford F150 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0118 in a 2018 Ford F150?

The common symptoms of code P0118 in a 2018 Ford F150 include the engine overheating, poor fuel economy, and the temperature gauge reading incorrectly.

2. What does the OBDII code P0118 Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High mean for a 2018 Ford F150?

The code P0118 indicates that the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 is sending a high signal to the engine control module (ECM), suggesting a potential issue with the sensor or its circuit.

3. What are the possible causes of the P0118 code in a 2018 Ford F150?

Common causes of the P0118 code in a 2018 Ford F150 include a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor, a damaged sensor wiring harness, or a problem with the ECM.

4. How can I diagnose the P0118 code in my 2018 Ford F150?

To diagnose the P0118 code, you can use an OBDII scanner to read the code, visually inspect the coolant temperature sensor and its wiring, and perform electrical tests to check for continuity and resistance.

5. Can a faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor cause other issues in a 2018 Ford F150?

Yes, a faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor can cause issues like poor engine performance, incorrect fuel mixture, and even trigger the Check Engine Light in a 2018 Ford F150.

6. How can I repair the P0118 code in my 2018 Ford F150?

Repairing the P0118 code in a 2018 Ford F150 typically involves replacing the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, repairing or replacing any damaged wiring, and clearing the code with an OBDII scanner.

7. Is it safe to continue driving my 2018 Ford F150 with the P0118 code present?

It is not recommended to drive your 2018 Ford F150 with the P0118 code present, as it can lead to engine overheating, poor fuel efficiency, and potential long-term damage to the engine.

8. Can I reset the P0118 code in my 2018 Ford F150 without fixing the underlying issue?

While you can clear the code with an OBDII scanner, it is important to address the underlying issue causing the P0118 code to prevent further complications with your vehicle.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair the P0118 code in a 2018 Ford F150?

The cost of repairing the P0118 code in a 2018 Ford F150 can vary depending on the cause of the issue, but it may range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor.

10. Are there any preventive measures to avoid the P0118 code in a 2018 Ford F150?

To prevent the P0118 code in a 2018 Ford F150, you can regularly inspect and maintain your engine coolant temperature sensor, address any cooling system issues promptly, and follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule.

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