I just changed the water pump in our 2017 F-150 with a 5.0 engine. Now, the check engine light is on, and there’s a code P1299, which means the cylinder head is too hot.
AutoZone said it might be the thermostat or a gasket, but I only replaced an O-ring.
I found online that it could be a sensor, but it’s on the back of the engine. I thought we might have unplugged something, but we only moved the air intake and some hoses at the front.
Does anyone have any ideas or similar experiences?
Was the system filled carefully, making sure to remove all the air? It’s very important because of how the system works.
Honestly, no, I didn’t know it was necessary. It’s been a long time since I replaced a water pump.
The code is about the cylinder head temperature sensor, not the cooling system temperature. The sensor is located in a ‘dry hole’ on the back passenger side of the cylinder head.
It can be replaced without draining the cooling system, but it probably isn’t the problem. The sensor is just letting you know there’s an issue by setting the code.
This sensor is unique because it has two sensors in one package, and explaining why would take some time. If there’s air in the head, the sensor may show a higher temperature where the air pocket is.
You have a complex vehicle, unlike older models with simpler systems. So, be ready to learn before doing any work on it to avoid creating bigger problems. Good luck!
If you didn’t use a vacuum fill tool when refilling, there’s likely air trapped in the system. I recommend using the right tool to fix that and then clearing the code; it probably won’t come back.
I don’t think the sensor is bad since this makes sense after replacing the water pump.
Did you follow this? It applies to any type of engine.
No, I didn’t know that existed. The water pump broke, and the engine got hot, so my wife pulled over. We towed it home. I’m wondering if the engine light came on because it got hot and if it needs to be cleared. She’s using it today, and it’s running at a normal temperature with no problems, but the engine light is still on.
You can now clear the code.
Can the units at AutoZone & O-Reilly clear those?
Sometimes you have to nudge them a bit. I’m not sure if it’s a local rule or a nationwide thing, but a few years ago, all the parts stores around me were told they couldn’t clear engine codes. I guess there was an issue with people clearing codes before selling or trading their vehicles. My local parts store lets me use the scanner by saying they need to “take a phone call” and asks me not to touch the scanner, if you know what I mean. Then they come back in a few minutes, haha.