P1285 Code LINCOLN Possible Causes
- Engine overheated
- Low engine coolant level
- Faulty Cylinder Head Temperature (CHT) sensor
- Cylinder Head Temperature sensor harness is open or shorted
- Poor electrical connection in the Cylinder Head Temperature sensor circuit
How is the P1285 LINCOLN Code Repair Done?
Start by checking the “Possible Causes” listed above. Visually inspect the wiring harness and related connectors. Check for damaged components and look for broken, bent, pushed out, or corroded connector pins.
What are the Possible Symptoms of P1285 LINCOLN Code?
- Check Engine Light On (or Service Engine Soon Warning Light)
What is the Meaning of P1285 LINCOLN Code?
The Cylinder Head Temperature (CHT) sensor is a thermistor device where resistance changes with temperature. The electrical resistance of a thermistor decreases as temperature increases and resistance increases as temperature decreases. The variable resistance affects the voltage drop across the sensor terminals and provides electrical signals to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) corresponding to the temperature.
The CHT sensor is installed in the aluminum cylinder head and measures the metal temperature. The CHT sensor can provide comprehensive engine temperature information and can be used to infer coolant temperature. If the CHT sensor transmits an overheating condition to the PCM, the PCM initiates a fail-safe cooling strategy based on the CHT sensor information. A cooling system issue such as low coolant level or coolant loss can cause overheating. This could damage major engine components. By using both the CHT sensor and the fail-safe cooling strategy, the PCM prevents damage by allowing engine air cooling and backup capability.
The Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) indicates detected cylinder head overheating, meaning an engine overheating condition has been detected by the cylinder head temperature sensor.