Engine-CodesFord – P0118 2018 Ford F150

P0118 2018 Ford F150 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High

Quick Answer

The P0118 code on a 2018 Ford F150 indicates a problem with the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor 1 Circuit being too high. Common causes include Faulty ECT Sensor: The most common cause of the P0118 code is a malfunctioning ECT sensor, Wiring Issues: Corrosion, damage, or loose connections in the wiring harness that connects the ECT sensor to the ECM can trigger this code, Coolant Level: Low coolant levels or air pockets in the cooling system can affect the ECT sensor's readings. 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 2018 Ford F150 indicates Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High.
Common causes
Common causes include Faulty ECT Sensor: The most common cause of the P0118 code is a malfunctioning ECT sensor, Wiring Issues: Corrosion, damage, or loose connections in the wiring harness that connects the ECT sensor to the ECM can trigger this code, Coolant Level: Low coolant levels or air pockets in the cooling system can affect the ECT sensor's readings.
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.
Table of contents Created and updated by William Orellana on Sep 08, 2024
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Code P0118 2018 Ford F150 Description

The P0118 code on a 2018 Ford F150 indicates a problem with the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor 1 Circuit being too high. The ECT sensor is responsible for monitoring the temperature of the engine coolant and sending this information to the engine control module (ECM). When the ECM detects that the voltage signal from the ECT sensor is too high, it triggers the P0118 trouble code.

OBDII Code P0118 2018 Ford F150 - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High
P0118 2018 Ford F150 Code - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High

Common Causes of P0118 2018 Ford F150

  1. Faulty ECT Sensor: The most common cause of the P0118 code is a malfunctioning ECT sensor.
  2. Wiring Issues: Corrosion, damage, or loose connections in the wiring harness that connects the ECT sensor to the ECM can trigger this code.
  3. Coolant Level: Low coolant levels or air pockets in the cooling system can affect the ECT sensor's readings.
  4. Thermostat Failure: A stuck-open thermostat can cause the engine to run cooler than normal, leading to high ECT sensor readings.
  5. ECM Malfunction: In rare cases, a malfunctioning ECM can incorrectly interpret the ECT sensor data and trigger the P0118 code.

Symptoms of P0118 2018 Ford F150

  1. Check Engine Light: The most common symptom associated with the P0118 code is the illumination of the check engine light on the dashboard.
  2. Poor Fuel Economy: Due to incorrect temperature readings, the ECM may adjust the fuel mixture improperly, resulting in reduced fuel efficiency.
  3. Rough Idling: Incorrect temperature readings can cause the engine to idle roughly or inconsistently.
  4. Engine Overheating: If the ECT sensor is reading high temperatures inaccurately, the engine may overheat as a result.
  5. Engine Misfires: An incorrect fuel mixture due to faulty ECT sensor readings can lead to engine misfires.

How to Fix P0118 2018 Ford F150

  1. Diagnose the Issue: Use a scan tool to read the trouble code and perform a visual inspection of the ECT sensor and its wiring.
  2. Replace ECT Sensor: If the sensor is found to be faulty, replace it with a new one following the manufacturer's guidelines.
  3. Check Wiring: Inspect the wiring harness for any damage, corrosion, or loose connections. Repair or replace as necessary.
  4. Check Coolant Level: Ensure the coolant level is at the proper level and bleed any air pockets from the cooling system.
  5. Reset ECM: Clear the trouble code from the ECM's memory and perform a test drive to verify that the issue has been resolved.

Cost to Fix P0118 2018 Ford F150

The cost of repairing the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High issue on a 2018 Ford F150 can vary depending on the location, labor rates, and the price of parts. Generally, the cost of replacing the ECT sensor itself ranges from $50 to $150, while the labor cost can be between $80 and $150 per hour. In total, the repair for this code could range from $150 to $300, but it's advisable to check with local auto repair shops for a more accurate estimate.

Tech Notes for P0118 2018 Ford F150

Start by checking for coolant leaks, and if there are no leaks, the thermostat might be stuck closed and need replacement. If the problem persists, change the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor.

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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 2018 Ford F150 Code

1. What are the common symptoms of OBDII code P0118 in a 2018 Ford F150?

The common symptoms of code P0118 in a 2018 Ford F150 include the engine overheating, poor fuel economy, and the temperature gauge reading incorrectly.

2. What does the OBDII code P0118 Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High mean for a 2018 Ford F150?

The code P0118 indicates that the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 is sending a high signal to the engine control module (ECM), suggesting a potential issue with the sensor or its circuit.

3. What are the possible causes of the P0118 code in a 2018 Ford F150?

Common causes of the P0118 code in a 2018 Ford F150 include a faulty engine coolant temperature sensor, a damaged sensor wiring harness, or a problem with the ECM.

4. How can I diagnose the P0118 code in my 2018 Ford F150?

To diagnose the P0118 code, you can use an OBDII scanner to read the code, visually inspect the coolant temperature sensor and its wiring, and perform electrical tests to check for continuity and resistance.

5. Can a faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor cause other issues in a 2018 Ford F150?

Yes, a faulty Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor can cause issues like poor engine performance, incorrect fuel mixture, and even trigger the Check Engine Light in a 2018 Ford F150.

6. How can I repair the P0118 code in my 2018 Ford F150?

Repairing the P0118 code in a 2018 Ford F150 typically involves replacing the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor, repairing or replacing any damaged wiring, and clearing the code with an OBDII scanner.

7. Is it safe to continue driving my 2018 Ford F150 with the P0118 code present?

It is not recommended to drive your 2018 Ford F150 with the P0118 code present, as it can lead to engine overheating, poor fuel efficiency, and potential long-term damage to the engine.

8. Can I reset the P0118 code in my 2018 Ford F150 without fixing the underlying issue?

While you can clear the code with an OBDII scanner, it is important to address the underlying issue causing the P0118 code to prevent further complications with your vehicle.

9. How much does it typically cost to repair the P0118 code in a 2018 Ford F150?

The cost of repairing the P0118 code in a 2018 Ford F150 can vary depending on the cause of the issue, but it may range from $100 to $300 for parts and labor.

10. Are there any preventive measures to avoid the P0118 code in a 2018 Ford F150?

To prevent the P0118 code in a 2018 Ford F150, you can regularly inspect and maintain your engine coolant temperature sensor, address any cooling system issues promptly, and follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule.

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