Cylinder Head Overtemperature Sensed
2016-2018 Lincoln MKX 3.7L V6
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
- Check coolant level immediately
- Verify cooling fans are operating
- Test thermostat operation
- Check for coolant leaks
- Test CHT sensor readings vs actual temperature
- 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
Other Powertrain Codes
- P0001Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open
- P0001Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open
- P0002Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance
- P0002Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance
- P0003Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low
- P0003Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low
- P0004Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit High
- P0004Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit High
- P0010Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
- P0010Intake Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open Bank 1
P1285 on Other Vehicles
Lincoln Aviator
2003-2005 4.6L V8
Lincoln Aviator
2003-2005 4.6L V8 DOHC
Lincoln Aviator
2020-2024 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6
Lincoln Aviator
2020-2024 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo
Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring
2020-2024 3.0L Twin Turbo V6 PHEV
Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring
2020-2024 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 Hybrid
Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring
2020-2024 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo Hybrid
Lincoln Blackwood
2002-2002 5.4L V8
Common Questions
What does code P1285 mean on a 2016-2018 Lincoln MKX?
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 Lincoln MKX?
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 2016-2018 Lincoln MKX?
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.