AutoCodesFord – U1073 Ford

U1073 Ford Code - Invalid Or Missing Data For Engine Coolant

Quick Answer

Modules connected to the class 2 serial data circuit monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Common causes include Faulty Engine Coolant Sensor, Engine Coolant Sensor harness is open or shorted, Engine Coolant Sensor circuit poor electrical connection. 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
U1073 Ford indicates Invalid Or Missing Data For Engine Coolant.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty Engine Coolant Sensor, Engine Coolant Sensor harness is open or shorted, Engine Coolant Sensor circuit poor electrical connection.
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 4,852
How popular is this code, among other codes? Low
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Apr 22, 2020
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Code U1073 Ford Description

Modules connected to the class 2 serial data circuit monitor for serial data communications during normal vehicle operation. Operating information and commands are exchanged among the modules. When a module receives a message for a critical operating parameter, the module records the identification number of the module which sent the message for the state of health monitoring/node alive messages. A critical operating parameter is one which, when not received, requires that the module use a default value for that parameter. Once an identification number is learned by a module, it will monitor for that module node alive message. Each module on the class 2 serial data circuit is required to send a Node Alive message every 2 seconds. When no message is detected from a learned identification number for 5 seconds, a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) U1073 is set.
OBDII Code U1073 Ford - Invalid Or Missing Data For Engine Coolant - AutoCodes.com
U1073 Ford Code - Invalid Or Missing Data For Engine Coolant

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC U1073 Ford?

  • Faulty Engine Coolant Sensor
  • Engine Coolant Sensor harness is open or shorted
  • Engine Coolant Sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC U1073 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.

Code Tech Notes

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the U1073 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.

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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 U1073 Ford Code

1. What does the OBDII code U1073 mean on a Ford vehicle?

U1073 indicates "Invalid or Missing Data for Engine Coolant," meaning the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is not receiving proper data related to engine coolant temperature from the network.

2. What are the common symptoms of code U1073 on a Ford?

Symptoms may include erratic temperature gauge readings, poor fuel efficiency, engine overheating, or the vehicle entering limp mode.

3. What causes code U1073 to appear on a Ford vehicle?

The code can be triggered by a faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a malfunctioning PCM, or network communication issues between modules.

4. Can I drive my Ford with code U1073 active?

It is not recommended to drive with this code active, as incorrect coolant data can lead to engine overheating or other performance issues.

5. How do I diagnose code U1073 on a Ford?

Start by checking the ECT sensor and its wiring for damage or corrosion, inspect the network communication lines, and use a scan tool to monitor live data for any irregularities.

6. How do I fix code U1073 on a Ford vehicle?

Repairs may involve replacing the ECT sensor, repairing or replacing damaged wiring or connectors, updating the PCM software, or addressing communication faults between modules.

7. Can a dead battery cause the U1073 code on a Ford?

Yes, a weak or dead battery can cause network communication errors, potentially triggering the U1073 code.

8. Is code U1073 specific to the engine coolant system?

While it primarily relates to engine coolant data, the root cause may lie in broader communication issues within the vehicle’s network.

9. How much does it cost to repair the U1073 code on a Ford?

Repair costs can range from $50 to $300, depending on whether you’re replacing the ECT sensor, fixing wiring, or addressing PCM or network issues.

10. Can a PCM reset clear the U1073 code?

Resetting the PCM may temporarily clear the code, but the underlying issue must be resolved to prevent the code from returning.

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