AutoCodes – Ford – P1290 2009 Ford Fusion

P1290 2009 Ford Fusion Code - Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor Signal Less Than 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: P1290 2009 Ford Fusion indicates Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor Signal Less Than 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 2,232

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 Aug 07, 2019

Description
Possible Causes
How To Fix
Cost to Diagnose
FAQs
Comments
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Code P1290 2009 Ford Fusion 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 2009 Ford Fusion - Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor Signal Less Than Self-Test Range - AutoCodes.com — P1290 2009 Ford Fusion Code - Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor Signal Less Than Self-Test Range

What does this mean?

What are the Possible Causes of the DTC P1290 2009 Ford Fusion?

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 2009 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 is the Cost to Diagnose the Code?

Labor: 1.0

To diagnose the P1290 2009 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 P1290 2009 Ford Fusion code?

Need more information on how to fix the P1290 2009 Ford Fusion code? Get Access to Factory Service Manuals

Need Help with the 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 P1290 2009 Ford Fusion Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P1290 in a 2009 Ford Fusion?

The common symptoms of OBDII code P1290 in a 2009 Ford Fusion include engine overheating, rough idling, poor fuel efficiency, and potential stalling.

2. What is the primary cause of OBDII code P1290 in a 2009 Ford Fusion?

The primary cause of OBDII code P1290 in a 2009 Ford Fusion is a malfunction or failure of the cylinder head temperature sensor.

3. How does a faulty cylinder head temperature sensor trigger OBDII code P1290 in a 2009 Ford Fusion?

A faulty cylinder head temperature sensor can send incorrect signals to the engine control module, causing it to detect temperatures outside the normal operating range and trigger code P1290.

4. What are some DIY repair tips for resolving OBDII code P1290 in a 2009 Ford Fusion?

Some DIY repair tips for resolving OBDII code P1290 in a 2009 Ford Fusion include checking and potentially replacing the cylinder head temperature sensor, inspecting the wiring harness for any damage, and clearing the error code with an OBDII scanner.

5. Can driving with OBDII code P1290 in a 2009 Ford Fusion cause further damage to the engine?

Continued driving with OBDII code P1290 in a 2009 Ford Fusion can potentially cause engine overheating, which may lead to more severe damage such as blown head gaskets or engine failure.

6. How much does it cost to repair OBDII code P1290 in a 2009 Ford Fusion at a mechanic's shop?

The cost of repairing OBDII code P1290 in a 2009 Ford Fusion at a mechanic's shop can vary depending on the labor rates and parts needed, but it typically ranges from $150 to $300.

7. Is it safe to continue driving a 2009 Ford Fusion with OBDII code P1290 if the symptoms are not severe?

It is not recommended to continue driving a 2009 Ford Fusion with OBDII code P1290, even if the symptoms are not severe, as it can lead to potential engine damage and safety hazards.

8. How long does it take to repair OBDII code P1290 in a 2009 Ford Fusion?

The repair time for OBDII code P1290 in a 2009 Ford Fusion can vary depending on the extent of the issue, but it typically takes around 1-2 hours to diagnose and fix the problem.

9. Can a faulty thermostat cause OBDII code P1290 in a 2009 Ford Fusion?

While a faulty thermostat can contribute to engine overheating, it is not a direct cause of OBDII code P1290 in a 2009 Ford Fusion, which specifically relates to the cylinder head temperature sensor signal.

10. Is it possible to prevent OBDII code P1290 in a 2009 Ford Fusion through regular maintenance?

Regular maintenance, such as checking and replacing sensors as needed, can help prevent issues like OBDII code P1290 in a 2009 Ford Fusion, ensuring the proper functioning of critical components.