AutoCodes – Ford – P1117 1997 Ford F150

P1117 1997 Ford F150 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Intermittent

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, Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor harness is open or shorted. 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: P1117 1997 Ford F150 indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Intermittent.
Common causes: Common causes include Low Engine Coolant Level, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor, Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor harness is open or shorted.
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 2,462

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 Apr 22, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1117 1997 Ford F150 Description

The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor is a thermistor device in which resistance changes with temperature. The electrical 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 terminals 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. 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 measures the temperature of the engine coolant. The PCM uses the ECT input for fuel control and for cooling fan control. There are 3 types of ECT sensors; threaded, push-in, and twist-lock. The ECT sensor is located in an engine coolant passage.

OBDII Code P1117 1997 Ford F150 - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Intermittent - AutoCodes.com — P1117 1997 Ford F150 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Intermittent

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1117 1997 Ford F150?

Low Engine Coolant Level
Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor
Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor harness is open or shorted
Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor electrical circuit poor connection
Faulty Engine Coolant Thermostat
Damaged Powertrain Control Module (PCM)

How to Fix the DTC P1117 1997 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

Monitor the ECT on a scan tool. Look for sudden changes in the reading when the harness is wiggled or the sensor is tapped.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1117 1997 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 P1117 1997 Ford F150 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1117 in a 1997 Ford F150 related to the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Intermittent issue?

- Common symptoms include erratic temperature readings on the dashboard, poor fuel economy, and potential engine overheating.

2. What are the possible causes of the P1117 code in a 1997 Ford F150?

- The code P1117 can be triggered by a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor, loose or corroded wiring connections, or a malfunctioning PCM (Powertrain Control Module).

3. How can I diagnose the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Intermittent issue in my 1997 Ford F150?

- Use an OBDII scanner to retrieve the specific trouble code (P1117), visually inspect the sensor and its wiring for any visible damage, and perform a resistance test on the sensor to check for proper functioning.

4. Can driving with the P1117 code on a 1997 Ford F150 cause further damage to the vehicle?

- Driving with the P1117 code may lead to inaccurate temperature readings, potential engine overheating, and reduced fuel efficiency, which can further damage engine components if not addressed promptly.

5. How can I repair the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Intermittent issue in my 1997 Ford F150?

- To repair the issue, you may need to replace the faulty engine coolant temperature sensor, repair any damaged wiring connections, or reprogram the PCM if necessary.

6. Is it safe to continue driving my 1997 Ford F150 with the P1117 code present?

- It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with the P1117 code, as it can lead to engine overheating and other potential issues that may compromise the safety and performance of your vehicle.

7. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the P1117 code related to the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Intermittent issue in a 1997 Ford F150?

- Depending on your skill level and access to tools, a DIY enthusiast may be able to replace the engine coolant temperature sensor or check and repair wiring connections. However, more complex diagnostics and repairs may require professional assistance.

8. How much does it typically cost to repair the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Intermittent issue causing the P1117 code in a 1997 Ford F150?

- The cost of repairs can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but replacing the engine coolant temperature sensor can range from $50 to $200, while addressing wiring or PCM problems may incur additional costs.

9. Will resetting the OBDII code temporarily fix the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Intermittent issue in my 1997 Ford F150?

- Resetting the code may temporarily clear the error message, but if the underlying issue causing the P1117 code is not addressed, it is likely to reappear once the problem persists.

10. How long does it take to repair the P1117 code related to the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Intermittent issue in a 1997 Ford F150?

- The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue and the complexity of the repair. Replacing the sensor can typically be done in under an hour, while diagnosing and fixing wiring or PCM issues may take longer and require professional expertise.