P1290 - Cylinder Head Temperature (CHT) Sensor Circuit Low Input

2004 Ford Focus ZX5, 2.3 Z, StandardSECTION P1290 - Cylinder Head Temperature (CHT) Sensor Circuit Low Input
P1290 - CYLINDER HEAD TEMPERATURE (CHT) SENSOR CIRCUIT LOW INPUT

Description:  Indicates a CHT sensor circuit malfunction (shorted).
Possible Causes: 
  • Grounded circuit in CHT harness.
  • Damaged CHT sensor.
  • Improper harness connection.
  • Damaged PCM.
Diagnostic Aids:  A CHT V PID reading less than 0.2 volt with key ON and engine OFF or during any engine operating mode indicates a hard fault.
NOTE: DTC P0117 may also be reported when this DTC is set. Either of these DTCs activate the MIL light.
Application  Key On Engine Off  Key On Engine Running  Continuous Memory 
All GO to DL: Cylinder Head Temperature (CHT) Sensor STEP 7 GO to DL: Cylinder Head Temperature (CHT) Sensor STEP 7 GO to DL: Cylinder Head Temperature (CHT) Sensor STEP 15
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

Recommended Tools & Savings

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.