AutoCodes – Ford – P0116 2010 Ford Fusion

P0116 2010 Ford Fusion Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance

Quick Answer

Indicates the engine coolant temperature rationality test has failed. Common causes include Low engine coolant level, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor or cylinder head temp (CHT) 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: P0116 2010 Ford Fusion indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance.
Common causes: Common causes include Low engine coolant level, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor or cylinder head temp (CHT) 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 3,404

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 Jun 14, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0116 2010 Ford Fusion Description

Indicates the engine coolant temperature rationality test has failed. This DTC indicates that the ECT or cylinder head temperature (CHT) value is higher than the calibrated value and could prevent one or more on-board diagnostic (OBD) monitors from completing. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) runs this logic after an engine off and a calibrated soak period(typically 6 hours). This soak period allows the intake air temperature (IAT) and the CHT or ECT to stabilize and not differ by more than a calibrated value. DTC P0116 sets when all of the following conditions are met: The ECT at engine start exceeds the IAT at engine start by more than a calibrated value, typically 17Â°C (30Â°F).

OBDII Code P0116 2010 Ford Fusion - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance - AutoCodes.com — P0116 2010 Ford Fusion Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0116 2010 Ford Fusion?

Low engine coolant level
Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor or cylinder head temp (CHT) sensor
Faulty engine coolant thermostat
Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor or cylinder head temp (CHT) sensor harness is open or shorted
Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor or cylinder head temp (CHT) sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0116 2010 Ford Fusion?

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, if there are not leaks the thermostat might be stuck open or closed and may need to be replaced, you still have an issue the engine coolant temp sensor or cylinder head temp sensor.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P0116 2010 Ford Fusion 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 P0116 2010 Ford Fusion Code

1. What does the OBDII code P0116 mean on a 2010 Ford Fusion?

P0116 indicates an issue with the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor 1 circuit, which is detecting a range or performance problem outside of the expected parameters.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P0116 in a 2010 Ford Fusion?

Symptoms may include difficulty starting the engine, poor fuel economy, erratic temperature gauge readings, overheating, or the Check Engine Light turning on.

3. What causes the P0116 code to occur in a 2010 Ford Fusion?

Common causes include a faulty ECT sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, a thermostat stuck open or closed, low coolant levels, or issues with the engine control module (ECM).

4. How do you diagnose the P0116 code on a 2010 Ford Fusion?

Start by scanning for codes, checking the coolant level, inspecting the ECT sensor and its wiring for damage, and testing the thermostat for proper operation.

5. Can a bad thermostat cause the P0116 code in a 2010 Ford Fusion?

Yes, a thermostat that is stuck open or closed can prevent the engine from reaching the correct operating temperature, triggering the P0116 code.

6. Can I drive my 2010 Ford Fusion with the P0116 code?

Driving with this code is not recommended, as it can lead to engine overheating or poor performance, potentially causing further damage.

7. How do you fix the P0116 code on a 2010 Ford Fusion?

Repairs may involve replacing the ECT sensor, repairing damaged wiring, replacing the thermostat, refilling coolant, or addressing other cooling system issues.

8. Where is the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor located on a 2010 Ford Fusion?

The ECT sensor is typically located near the engine's thermostat housing, where it can measure the temperature of the coolant.

9. How much does it cost to fix the P0116 code on a 2010 Ford Fusion?

Repair costs depend on the issue but generally range from $100 to $300, including parts and labor, for common fixes like replacing the ECT sensor or thermostat.

10. Can low coolant levels trigger the P0116 code in a 2010 Ford Fusion?

Yes, low coolant levels can cause erratic temperature readings, leading to the P0116 code. Always check and top off coolant if needed.