AutoCodes – Ford – P0117 2008 Ford Fusion

P0117 2008 Ford Fusion 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 2008 Ford Fusion 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.

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Code Popularity 4,490

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
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Code P0117 2008 Ford Fusion 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 2008 Ford Fusion - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com — P0117 2008 Ford Fusion Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0117 2008 Ford Fusion?

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 2008 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, 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 2008 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.

Need more information about the P0117 2008 Ford Fusion 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 P0117 2008 Ford Fusion Code

1. What are common symptoms of OBDII code P0117 on a 2008 Ford Fusion?

- Common symptoms include issues with the engine temperature gauge reading incorrectly, poor fuel economy, and potential overheating.

2. What causes the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low code (P0117) on a 2008 Ford Fusion?

- The code P0117 is usually triggered by a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, or low engine coolant levels.

3. How can I diagnose the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low code on my 2008 Ford Fusion?

- You can diagnose the issue by checking the engine coolant level, inspecting the sensor and its wiring for damage, and using an OBDII scanner to read the code and determine the exact problem.

4. Can I drive my 2008 Ford Fusion with the P0117 code?

- It is not recommended to drive the vehicle with the P0117 code, as it can lead to potential engine overheating and other issues. It is best to address the problem promptly.

5. How do I repair the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit Low code on my 2008 Ford Fusion?

- The repair typically involves replacing the engine coolant temperature sensor, repairing any damaged wiring or connectors, and ensuring the engine coolant levels are adequate.

6. Will resetting the OBDII code P0117 on my 2008 Ford Fusion make it go away?

- Simply resetting the code will not fix the underlying issue causing the P0117 code. It is important to diagnose and repair the root cause of the problem.

7. How much does it cost to fix the P0117 code on a 2008 Ford Fusion?

- The cost of fixing the P0117 code can vary depending on the root cause of the problem, but it generally involves replacing the engine coolant temperature sensor, which can cost around $50 to $100.

8. Can a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor cause other issues besides the P0117 code on a 2008 Ford Fusion?

- Yes, a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor can cause other issues such as rough idling, poor fuel economy, and inaccurate temperature readings on the dashboard.

9. How long does it take to repair the P0117 code on a 2008 Ford Fusion?

- The repair time can vary depending on the experience of the mechanic and any additional issues found during diagnosis, but it typically takes around 1-2 hours to replace the engine coolant temperature sensor.

10. Is it possible to prevent the P0117 code from recurring on my 2008 Ford Fusion?

- To prevent the P0117 code from recurring, it's essential to perform regular maintenance on your vehicle, including checking coolant levels, inspecting the sensor and wiring for damage, and addressing any issues promptly.