AutoCodes.com
Login with Google
AutoCodes – Ford – P0118 Ford

P0118 Ford 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 Ford 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.
Save to My Repairs Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide My Repairs
AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat
Code Popularity 54,873
How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium
What is this?
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 22, 2023
💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code P0118 Ford 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 Ford - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High - AutoCodes.com
P0118 Ford Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High
What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0118 Ford?

  • 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 Ford?

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 need 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 Ford 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 Ford code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0118 Ford code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0118 Ford code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

Information for Specific Ford Models

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 Ford Code

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

P0118 indicates a high voltage issue in the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor 1 circuit, signaling that the sensor is reading a temperature that is too low or outside the expected range.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P0118 on a Ford?

Symptoms include poor fuel economy, rough idle, difficulty starting, engine running rich, and the cooling fan running continuously.

3. What causes the P0118 code to appear on a Ford?

Common causes include a faulty ECT sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a short circuit, or a malfunctioning Engine Control Module (ECM).

4. Can I drive my Ford with a P0118 code active?

While the car may still be drivable, it can lead to poor performance, increased emissions, and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly.

5. How is the P0118 code diagnosed on a Ford?

Diagnosis typically involves scanning for additional codes, inspecting the ECT sensor and wiring, testing the sensor's resistance, and verifying the voltage output using a multimeter.

6. How do I fix the P0118 code on my Ford?

Repairs may include replacing the ECT sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring, cleaning connectors, or updating/replacing the ECM if needed.

7. Where is the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor located on a Ford?

The ECT sensor is usually located near the thermostat housing or on the cylinder head, depending on the specific Ford model.

8. How much does it cost to repair a P0118 code on a Ford?

Replacing the ECT sensor typically costs between $50 and $150, including parts and labor. Wiring repairs or ECM replacement may increase costs.

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

While uncommon, a stuck thermostat can indirectly contribute to cooling system issues, but the code is usually caused by sensor or wiring problems.

10. Will clearing the P0118 code fix the problem on my Ford?

Clearing the code will temporarily turn off the check engine light, but the issue will return unless the underlying problem is resolved.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P0118 Ford OBDII Code

Submit a New Comment

Code P0118 Ford comments

No comments found for this page.

AutoCodes App

Fix Your Car Smarter

Try the New AutoCodes App!

Get complete OBDII diagnostics, repair solutions, and cost estimates, plus AI chat support on demand.

AutoCodes App on Google Play