AutoCodes – Ford – P1288 1999 Ford F150

P1288 1999 Ford F150 Code - Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor Out of Self-Test Range

Quick Answer

The Cylinder Head Temperature (CHT) Sensor is mounted into the wall of the cylinder head and is not connected to any coolant passages. Common causes include Wrong thermostat, Engine overheated, Low engine coolant level. 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: P1288 1999 Ford F150 indicates Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor Out of Self-Test Range.
Common causes: Common causes include Wrong thermostat, Engine overheated, Low engine coolant level.
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 4,408

How popular is this code, among other codes? Low

Repair Importance Level

Urgent (Diagnose now) (3 / 3)

Repair Difficulty Level

Advanced (Pro) (3 / 3)

What is this?

Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Dec 23, 2021

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Tech Notes
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1288 1999 Ford F150 Description

The Cylinder Head Temperature (CHT) Sensor is mounted into the wall of the cylinder head and is not connected to any coolant passages. The CHT sends a signal to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) indicating the cylinder head temperature. If the temperature exceeds 126°C (-258°F), the PCM disables four fuel injectors at a time. The PCM will alternate which four injectors are disabled every 32 engine cycles. The four cylinders that are not being fuel injected act as air pumps to aid in cooling the engine. If the temperature exceeds 154 °C (310°F), the PCM disables all of the fuel injectors until the engine temperature drops below 154°C (310°F).

OBDII Code P1288 1999 Ford F150 - Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor Out of Self-Test Range - AutoCodes.com — P1288 1999 Ford F150 Code - Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor Out of Self-Test Range

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1288 1999 Ford F150?

Wrong thermostat
Engine overheated
Low engine coolant level
Faulty Cylinder Head Temperature (CHT) sensor
Cylinder Head Temperature sensor harness is open or shorted
Cylinder Head Temperature sensor circuit poor electrical connection

How to Fix the DTC P1288 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

This indicates the Cylinder Head Temperature (CHT) sensor is out of the Self-Test range. The engine is not at a normal operating temperature.

What is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1288 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 P1288 1999 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 P1288 1999 Ford F150 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1288 on a 1999 Ford F150?

- Common symptoms include rough idling, engine misfires, poor acceleration, and possibly an illuminated check engine light.

2. What does the OBDII code P1288 indicate on a 1999 Ford F150?

- The code P1288 indicates that the Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor is out of self-test range, signaling a potential issue with the sensor or its circuit.

3. What are the possible causes of OBDII code P1288 on a 1999 Ford F150?

- Possible causes include a faulty Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor, wiring issues, sensor circuit problems, or a malfunction in the engine control module.

4. How can I diagnose the Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor on a 1999 Ford F150 with code P1288?

- You can diagnose the sensor by using a multimeter to test its resistance or voltage readings, checking the wiring harness for any damage, and ensuring proper connections.

5. What are the repair options for resolving OBDII code P1288 on a 1999 Ford F150?

- Repair options may include replacing the Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor, repairing any damaged wiring or connections, or resetting the engine control module after fixing the issue.

6. Can I continue driving my 1999 Ford F150 with OBDII code P1288?

- It is recommended not to drive the vehicle extensively with this code present, as it can lead to potential engine performance issues and further damage if left unresolved.

7. How much does it typically cost to repair OBDII code P1288 on a 1999 Ford F150?

- The cost of repair can vary depending on the exact cause of the issue, but it may range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor.

8. Will resetting the check engine light resolve OBDII code P1288 on a 1999 Ford F150?

- Simply resetting the check engine light will not resolve the underlying issue causing the code. It is essential to diagnose and repair the problem to prevent it from recurring.

9. Can a DIY enthusiast fix OBDII code P1288 on a 1999 Ford F150?

- Depending on your mechanical skills and access to tools, you may be able to replace the Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor yourself. However, diagnosing electrical issues may require professional assistance.

10. How often does OBDII code P1288 occur in a 1999 Ford F150?

- The occurrence of code P1288 may vary, but it is not a common code and usually indicates a specific issue related to the Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor.