AutoCodes – Ford – P1290 2010 Ford Fusion

P1290 2010 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 2010 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 3,264

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 2010 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 2010 Ford Fusion - Cylinder Head Temperature Sensor Signal Less Than Self-Test Range - AutoCodes.com — P1290 2010 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 2010 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 2010 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 2010 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 2010 Ford Fusion code?

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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 2010 Ford Fusion Code

1. What does the OBDII code P1290 mean for a 2010 Ford Fusion?

P1290 indicates that the Cylinder Head Temperature (CHT) sensor is reporting a signal that is lower than the expected range during self-testing.

2. What are the common symptoms of code P1290 on a 2010 Ford Fusion?

Symptoms may include engine overheating, poor fuel economy, reduced performance, or the vehicle entering limp mode.

3. What causes the P1290 code to appear on a 2010 Ford Fusion?

Common causes include a faulty CHT sensor, damaged wiring or connectors, coolant leaks, or an issue with the engine's cooling system.

4. Can driving with a P1290 code cause damage to my 2010 Ford Fusion?

Yes, ignoring this code can lead to severe engine overheating, which may cause permanent engine damage if not addressed.

5. How do I fix the P1290 code on a 2010 Ford Fusion?

Repairs may involve replacing the CHT sensor, repairing damaged wiring, addressing coolant system issues, or ensuring proper coolant levels.

6. Where is the Cylinder Head Temperature sensor located on a 2010 Ford Fusion?

The CHT sensor is typically located in the cylinder head, near the engine block, and monitors the engine's temperature.

7. How do I know if the CHT sensor is faulty on my 2010 Ford Fusion?

A faulty sensor may show incorrect temperature readings on a scan tool, cause the engine to overheat, or trigger the P1290 code.

8. Can a low coolant level cause the P1290 code on a 2010 Ford Fusion?

Yes, low coolant levels can affect the CHT sensor's readings and may trigger the P1290 code.

9. Is it expensive to fix the P1290 code on a 2010 Ford Fusion?

The cost depends on the specific issue, but replacing a CHT sensor typically ranges from $100 to $300, including parts and labor.

10. Do I need professional help to fix the P1290 code on my 2010 Ford Fusion?

While experienced DIYers can address some issues, diagnosing and repairing the P1290 code often requires specialized tools and knowledge, so professional assistance is recommended.