Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2008 Ford Explorer 2WD V8-4.6LFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Oil Temperature Sensor For ECM: Service and Repair
OIL TEMPERATURE SENSOR
Removal and Installation
1. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist.
2. Drain the engine oil.
- Install the drain plug and tighten to 26 Nm (19 lb-ft).
3. Disconnect the oil temperature sensor electrical connector.
4. Remove the oil temperature sensor.
- To install, tighten to 15 Nm (11 lb-ft).
5. To install, reverse the removal procedure.
- Inspect the O-ring seal and install a new O-ring seal if necessary.
- Fill the engine with clean engine oil.
Removal and Installation
1. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist.
2. Drain the engine oil.
- Install the drain plug and tighten to 26 Nm (19 lb-ft).
3. Disconnect the oil temperature sensor electrical connector.
4. Remove the oil temperature sensor.
- To install, tighten to 15 Nm (11 lb-ft).
5. To install, reverse the removal procedure.
- Inspect the O-ring seal and install a new O-ring seal if necessary.
- Fill the engine with clean engine oil.
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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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.