AutoCodes – Ford – P0117 1999 Ford F150

P0117 1999 Ford F150 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low

Quick Answer

The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor is used to detect the engine coolant temperature. Common causes include Low engine coolant level, Faulty engine coolant thermostat, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor or Cylinder Head Temperature (CHT) Sensor. 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: P0117 1999 Ford F150 indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low.
Common causes: Common causes include Low engine coolant level, Faulty engine coolant thermostat, Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor or Cylinder Head Temperature (CHT) Sensor.
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 My Repairs

AI answers can be wrong. Verify repairs with testing. Open full chat

Code Popularity 3,889

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 Aug 02, 2020

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
Add Comment

💬 Need more help? Ask Coddy for instant answers — it's free!

Code P0117 1999 Ford F150 Description

The Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor is used to detect the engine coolant temperature. The sensor modifies a voltage signal from the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The modified signal returns to the PCM as the engine coolant temperature input. The sensor uses a thermistor which is sensitive to the change in temperature. The electrical resistance of the thermistor decreases as temperature increases. The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) indicates the sensor signal is greater than the self-test maximum. The ECT sensor minimum is 0.2 volts or 121°C (250°F).

OBDII Code P0117 1999 Ford F150 - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com — P0117 1999 Ford F150 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0117 1999 Ford F150?

Low engine coolant level
Faulty engine coolant thermostat
Faulty Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor or Cylinder Head Temperature (CHT) Sensor
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor or Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor harness is open or shorted
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor or Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P0117 1999 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 needs 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 P0117 1999 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 P0117 1999 Ford F150 code?

Need more information on how to fix the P0117 1999 Ford F150 code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the Code?

Get the P0117 1999 Ford F150 code diagnosed by a professional: Find a repair shop in your area

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 P0117 1999 Ford F150 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0117 in a 1999 Ford F150?

The common symptoms include issues with engine performance, such as poor fuel economy, rough idling, and difficulty starting the vehicle.

2. What does the OBDII code P0117 indicate in a 1999 Ford F150?

The code P0117 indicates a problem with the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor circuit being too low, which can lead to incorrect temperature readings.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0117 in a 1999 Ford F150?

The possible causes include a faulty ECT sensor, damaged wiring or connectors in the sensor circuit, low coolant level, or a malfunctioning engine control module (ECM).

4. How can I diagnose the issue related to OBDII code P0117 in my 1999 Ford F150?

You can use a multimeter to test the ECT sensor resistance, check the wiring and connectors for damage, inspect the coolant level, and scan the ECM for related trouble codes.

5. Can I continue to drive my 1999 Ford F150 with OBDII code P0117?

It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with a P0117 code as it can cause further damage to the engine and affect overall performance. It is best to address the issue promptly.

6. How can I repair OBDII code P0117 in my 1999 Ford F150?

You can repair the code P0117 by replacing the faulty ECT sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, refilling the coolant if low, or reprogramming or replacing the ECM if necessary.

7. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code P0117 in a 1999 Ford F150 without fixing the underlying issue?

While you can clear the code using an OBDII scanner, the code is likely to return if the root cause of the issue is not addressed.

8. Will fixing OBDII code P0117 improve the fuel efficiency of my 1999 Ford F150?

Yes, resolving the P0117 code can help improve fuel efficiency by ensuring the engine operates at the correct temperature and fuel mixture.

9. How long does it typically take to repair OBDII code P0117 in a 1999 Ford F150?

The repair time can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue and the expertise of the person performing the repair. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours.

10. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P0117 in a 1999 Ford F150?

Yes, if you have some mechanical knowledge and the right tools, you can attempt to fix the P0117 code yourself by following repair guides and tutorials specific to your vehicle model.