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Home/DTC Codes/Ford/Explorer/2002-2005 4.6L V8/P1285
P1285

Cylinder Head Overtemperature Sensed

2002-2005 Ford Explorer 4.6L V8

High SeverityPowertrain

Description

The Cylinder Head Temperature (CHT) sensor has detected an overtemperature condition. The engine is running hotter than safe limits. This is a precursor to P1299 fail-safe activation.

Symptoms

  • Check Engine Light
  • Temperature gauge reading high
  • Reduced engine power
  • A/C may shut off automatically

Common Causes

  • Low engine coolant level
  • Faulty thermostat stuck closed
  • Failed water pump
  • Clogged radiator
  • Failed cooling fan
  • Head gasket leak
  • Faulty CHT sensor

Diagnostic Steps

  1. Check coolant level immediately
  2. Verify cooling fans are operating
  3. Test thermostat operation
  4. Check for coolant leaks
  5. Test CHT sensor readings vs actual temperature
  6. Pressure test cooling system

Repair Notes

Stop driving if engine is actually overheating. Check coolant level and cooling system. Replace thermostat or water pump if faulty.

Related Codes

P0217Engine Overtemperature ConditionP1288Intake Manifold Short Runner Solenoid CircuitP1288Intake Manifold Short Runner Solenoid CircuitP1288Intake Manifold Short Runner Solenoid CircuitP1288Intake Manifold Short Runner Solenoid CircuitP1299Vacuum Leak Found IAC At MaxP1299Cylinder Head Over-Temperature Protection ActiveP1299Vacuum Leak Found IAC At MaxP1299Vacuum Leak Found IAC At MaxP1299Cylinder Head Over-Temperature Protection ActiveP1299Cylinder Head Over-Temperature Protection ActiveP1299Vacuum Leak Found IAC At Max

Other Powertrain Codes

P1285 on Other Vehicles

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1990-1997 3.0L V6

Ford Aerostar

1990-1997 4.0L V6

Ford Bronco

1990-1996 4.9L I6 300

Ford Bronco

1990-1996 5.0L V8 302 Windsor

Ford Bronco

1990-1996 5.8L V8 351 Windsor

Ford Bronco

2021-2024 2.3L I4 EcoBoost

Ford Bronco

2021-2024 2.7L V6 EcoBoost

Ford Bronco Raptor

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Common Questions

What does code P1285 mean on a 2002-2005 Ford Explorer?

P1285 stands for "Cylinder Head Overtemperature Sensed". The Cylinder Head Temperature (CHT) sensor has detected an overtemperature condition. The engine is running hotter than safe limits. This is a precursor to P1299 fail-safe activation.

What are the symptoms of P1285 on a Ford Explorer?

Common symptoms of P1285 include: Check Engine Light, Temperature gauge reading high, Reduced engine power, A/C may shut off automatically.

What causes P1285 on a 2002-2005 Ford Explorer?

Common causes of P1285 include: Low engine coolant level, Faulty thermostat stuck closed, Failed water pump, Clogged radiator, Failed cooling fan, Head gasket leak, Faulty CHT sensor.

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