AutoCodes – Ford – P0117 2020 Ford F150

P0117 2020 Ford F150 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low

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: P0117 2020 Ford F150 indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low.
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 322

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 P0117 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 ECT Sensor signal is less than the self-test minimum. The ECT Sensor signal minimum is 121°C (250°F).

OBDII Code P0117 2020 Ford F150 - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low - AutoCodes.com — P0117 2020 Ford F150 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0117 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 P0117 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 P0117 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 P0117 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 P0117 2020 Ford F150 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0117 in a 2020 Ford F150?

The common symptoms of OBDII code P0117 in a 2020 Ford F150 include engine overheating, poor fuel economy, rough idling, and difficulty starting the vehicle.

2. What does the OBDII code P0117 on a 2020 Ford F150 indicate?

OBDII code P0117 on a 2020 Ford F150 indicates an issue with the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit. It specifically points to a low voltage condition in the sensor circuit.

3. What are the possible causes of the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low error in a 2020 Ford F150?

Possible causes of the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low error in a 2020 Ford F150 include a faulty coolant temperature sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, low coolant level, or a malfunctioning engine control module (ECM).

4. How can I diagnose the OBDII code P0117 on my 2020 Ford F150?

To diagnose OBDII code P0117 on your 2020 Ford F150, you can use an OBDII scanner to read the code and inspect the coolant temperature sensor, wiring, and connections for any visible damage or corrosion.

5. Can I still drive my 2020 Ford F150 with the P0117 code?

It is not recommended to drive your 2020 Ford F150 with the P0117 code for an extended period, as it can lead to engine overheating and other potential issues. It's best to address the problem promptly.

6. How can I repair the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low issue on my 2020 Ford F150?

Repairing the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low issue on your 2020 Ford F150 may involve replacing the coolant temperature sensor, repairing damaged wiring or connectors, ensuring proper coolant levels, or resetting the ECM.

7. Is it possible to reset the OBDII code P0117 on a 2020 Ford F150 without fixing the underlying issue?

While you can clear the OBDII code P0117 on your 2020 Ford F150 using an OBDII scanner, the code is likely to return if the underlying issue with the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit is not addressed.

8. What are the potential risks of ignoring the P0117 code on a 2020 Ford F150?

Ignoring the P0117 code on your 2020 Ford F150 can lead to inaccurate temperature readings, engine overheating, reduced fuel efficiency, and potential damage to engine components over time.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast fix the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low error on a 2020 Ford F150?

Depending on your mechanical skills and access to tools, a DIY enthusiast may be able to replace the coolant temperature sensor or repair wiring issues causing the P0117 code on a 2020 Ford F150.

10. How much does it typically cost to repair the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low issue on a 2020 Ford F150?

The cost of repairing the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Low issue on a 2020 Ford F150 can vary based on the cause of the problem and whether you choose to do the repairs yourself or take the vehicle to a professional mechanic.