Why is my Ford Explorer saying engine coolant over temperature?

Understanding the Engine Coolant Over Temperature Warning in Ford Explorer
When your Ford Explorer displays an “Engine Coolant Over Temperature” warning, it indicates that there may be an issue with the coolant itself or a problem with the coolant temperature sensor. Here are some possible reasons and steps to address the warning:
1. Coolant Temperature Sensor Issue:
– The warning may be triggered by a malfunctioning coolant temperature sensor, indicated by the diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P1289.
– It’s recommended to check for any DTCs with an OBD-II scan tool to identify if the temperature sensor has failed.
2. Low Coolant Levels or Obstruction:
– Low coolant levels or an obstruction in the system can also trigger the warning. Ensure that the antifreeze levels are sufficient and check for any obstructions in the coolant system.
3. Thermostat Replacement and Coolant Mixture:
– If the warning light persists, consider replacing the thermostat and ensuring the correct mixture of coolant.
4. Warranty Coverage:
– If the vehicle is under warranty, contacting the local Ford dealership is advisable, as the coolant temperature sensor may be covered under the emissions warranty.
5. Diagnostic Steps:
– It’s important to scan the computer to determine any trouble codes and consider consulting a specialist if needed.
6. Potential Impact:
– Ignoring the warning can lead to serious engine problems, so it’s crucial to address the issue promptly to avoid damaging the engine.
It’s important to note that attempting to open the coolant reservoir when hot should be avoided, and if the warning persists, seeking professional assistance is recommended.

How much does it cost to replace a coolant temperature sensor?

What Does It Cost to Replace an ECT Sensor? If your ECT sensor needs to be replaced, it will typically cost between $200 and $400. This includes the cost of labor, which is usually between $100 and $150, and the cost of parts, which is usually between $5 and $250.

Is it safe to drive with engine coolant over temperature?

The Risks of Driving an Overheating Car:
Engine Damage: An overheating engine can cause significant damage to internal components, such as the head gasket, cylinder heads, and even the engine block. This damage may lead to a costly and extensive repair or, in severe cases, the need for a complete engine replacement.

What does it mean when your engine coolant is over temperature?

In general, it’s because something’s wrong within the cooling system and heat isn’t able to escape the engine compartment. The source of the issue could include a cooling system leak, bad radiator fan, faulty water pump, low engine oil level, or thermostat failure.

How do I fix my coolant temperature warning?

Check coolant levels – once the engine has cooled, check the coolant levels in the reservoir. Low coolant levels could be a reason for the high temperature. If the levels are low, topping up the coolant might resolve the issue temporarily.

Why is my car overheating but not leaking coolant?

If there’s no leak, an overheat is caused by a problem with coolant level, coolant circulation, or heat transfer. Fill the coolant level. If the problem recurs within a month, it was something other than low level. Circulation problems are caused by clogged radiators, bad water pumps, non-functioning thermostats.

How long can you drive with coolant warning?

Conclusion: Never drive your car without coolant
If you discover that you are running low and there is no gas station nearby, then it is recommended that you should call for assistance. Do not continue to drive as you may end up permanently damaging your engine.

How long can you drive with high coolant temperature?

The furthest you can drive an overheating car is about a ¼ mile before you risk irreversible engine damage. While some vehicles could still make it as far as 20 miles, we would never recommend driving very far with an overheating engine.

How much does it cost to fix an overheated engine?

A badly overheated cylinder will need to be pressure tested and inspected for warping and engine block crack/melt. These issues can lead to a complete engine rebuild and cost several $1,000 to fix.

Does low oil cause overheating?

Without the right amount of oil, your engine becomes more vulnerable to overheating. Since there’s not enough oil circulating through the engine, there’s no way for the engine to shed that excess heat. This can lead to heat soak, where certain engine components overheat and eventually deform due to the stress.

How do you fix high coolant temperature?

Typically a high coolant temp would be caused by a bad thermostat or blockage in the radiator due to rust or foreign material. Best things to do are replace the thermostat (cheap and easy to do) and have the cooling system flushed (also not too expensive and fairly easy to do.