AutoCodes – Ford – P0118 2003 Ford F150

P0118 2003 Ford F150 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High

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: P0118 2003 Ford F150 indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High.
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 4,502

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
Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P0118 2003 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 maximum is 4.6 volts or -50°C (-58°F).

OBDII Code P0118 2003 Ford F150 - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High - AutoCodes.com — P0118 2003 Ford F150 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor Circuit High

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P0118 2003 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 P0118 2003 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 P0118 2003 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.

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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 P0118 2003 Ford F150 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0118 in a 2003 Ford F150?

The common symptoms of OBDII code P0118 in a 2003 Ford F150 include engine overheating, rough idling, poor fuel economy, and the check engine light illuminating.

2. What does the OBDII code P0118 indicate in a 2003 Ford F150?

OBDII code P0118 in a 2003 Ford F150 indicates a high voltage signal from the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor circuit.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P0118 in a 2003 Ford F150?

Common causes of OBDII code P0118 in a 2003 Ford F150 include a faulty ECT sensor, a damaged ECT sensor connector or wiring, low coolant levels, or a malfunctioning thermostat.

4. How can I diagnose OBDII code P0118 in my 2003 Ford F150?

To diagnose OBDII code P0118 in a 2003 Ford F150, you can use a scan tool to check for the code, visually inspect the ECT sensor and its wiring, test the ECT sensor resistance, and verify coolant levels.

5. How can I repair OBDII code P0118 in my 2003 Ford F150?

To repair OBDII code P0118 in a 2003 Ford F150, you may need to replace the faulty ECT sensor, repair any damaged wiring or connectors, top up coolant levels, or replace a malfunctioning thermostat.

6. Can OBDII code P0118 in a 2003 Ford F150 cause engine damage?

If left unresolved, OBDII code P0118 in a 2003 Ford F150 can potentially lead to engine damage due to overheating, so it is important to address this issue promptly.

7. Will OBDII code P0118 in a 2003 Ford F150 affect vehicle performance?

Yes, OBDII code P0118 in a 2003 Ford F150 can affect vehicle performance by causing issues such as rough idling, poor fuel economy, and potential engine overheating.

8. Is it safe to continue driving with OBDII code P0118 in a 2003 Ford F150?

It is not recommended to continue driving with OBDII code P0118 in a 2003 Ford F150, as it can lead to engine overheating and potential damage if left unresolved.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P0118 in a 2003 Ford F150?

The cost to repair OBDII code P0118 in a 2003 Ford F150 can vary depending on the specific issue, but it may range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor.

10. Can I reset the OBDII code P0118 in my 2003 Ford F150 without fixing the underlying issue?

Resetting the OBDII code P0118 in a 2003 Ford F150 without fixing the underlying issue will only temporarily clear the code, but the problem will likely reappear until the root cause is addressed.