AutoCodes – Ford – P0116 2020 Ford F150

P0116 2020 Ford F150 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance

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: P0116 2020 Ford F150 indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance.
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 367

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 Sep 22, 2023

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0116 2020 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 engine coolant temperature or cylinder head temperature value is higher than the calibrated value and could prevent one or more On Board Diagnostic (OBD) monitors from completing. The PCM runs this logic after an engine off and a calibrated soak period (typically 6 hours). This soak period allows the intake air temperature and the engine coolant temperature or cylinder head temperature to stabilize and not differ by greater than a calibrated value. This DTC sets when all of the following conditions are met: The engine coolant temperature at engine start exceeds the intake air temperature at engine start by greater than a calibrated value, typically 17°C (30°F), the engine coolant temperature exceeds a calibrated value, typically 107°C (225°F), the fuel system, heated oxygen and misfire monitors have not completed, snd the calibrated time to set this DTC has expired.

OBDII Code P0116 2020 Ford F150 - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance - AutoCodes.com — P0116 2020 Ford F150 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Range/Performance

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0116 2020 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 P0116 2020 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

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 P0116 2020 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 P0116 2020 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 P0116 2020 Ford F150 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0116 on a 2020 Ford F150?

The common symptoms of code P0116 include engine overheating, rough idling, poor fuel economy, and potential stalling.

2. What could cause the OBDII code P0116 on a 2020 Ford F150?

Possible causes of code P0116 include a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor, a damaged sensor wiring harness, low coolant levels, or a malfunctioning thermostat.

3. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0116 on my 2020 Ford F150?

To diagnose code P0116, you can use an OBDII scanner to read the code, check the coolant level, inspect the engine coolant temperature sensor and its wiring, and test the thermostat for proper operation.

4. Can I continue driving my 2020 Ford F150 with OBDII code P0116?

It is not recommended to drive your vehicle with code P0116, as it can lead to potential engine damage due to incorrect temperature readings. It's best to address the issue promptly.

5. What is the repair process for OBDII code P0116 on a 2020 Ford F150?

The repair process for code P0116 typically involves replacing the engine coolant temperature sensor, repairing or replacing any damaged wiring, checking and filling coolant levels, and ensuring the thermostat is functioning correctly.

6. Will resetting the OBDII code P0116 on my 2020 Ford F150 make it go away permanently?

Simply resetting the code may temporarily clear the check engine light, but if the underlying issue causing code P0116 is not addressed, the code is likely to reappear.

7. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code P0116 on a 2020 Ford F150?

The cost of repairing code P0116 can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it typically ranges from $100 to $300 for parts and labor.

8. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0116 on a 2020 Ford F150?

If you have experience working on vehicles and the necessary tools, you may be able to replace the engine coolant temperature sensor yourself. However, diagnosing and repairing wiring issues or thermostat problems may require professional assistance.

9. Is OBDII code P0116 a serious issue on a 2020 Ford F150?

While code P0116 is not an emergency, it should be addressed promptly to prevent potential engine damage and ensure optimal performance and fuel efficiency.

10. How often does OBDII code P0116 occur in a 2020 Ford F150?

Code P0116 can occur sporadically or more frequently depending on the root cause. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to cooling system issues can help prevent the recurrence of this OBDII code.