AutoCodesGeneric – P1290

P1290 Code - Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor Low Input

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
P1290 indicates Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor Low Input.
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 69,803
How popular is this code, among other codes? Medium
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on May 01, 2019
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Code P1290 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 P1290 - Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor Low Input - AutoCodes.com
P1290 Code - Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor Low Input

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1290?

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

How to Fix the DTC P1290?

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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1290 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 P1290 code?

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Need Help with the Code?

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Information for Specific Makes

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 P1290 Code

No Frequently Asked Questions about P1290 Code found.

Discuss the causes and fixes for P1290 OBDII Code

  • Hi I have a 2006 f150 and now I have a code p1290 and p1000 and I don't know what it means

  • What is the engine size of your F150.
    The P1290 code means that there is a problem with the Cylinder Head Temp Sensor, and that the sensor may need to be replace.

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