What is OBD-II Code P1299 – Cylinder Head Overtemperature Protection Active
As a mechanic, one of the most significant tools in your arsenal is your diagnostic scanner. The scanner’s primary task is to tell you what is wrong with the car’s engine or other components. The onboard diagnostic (OBD-II) system has several codes that range from P0001 to P2999. These codes can give you a clue about what the issue might be. Code P1299 is one of the codes that you should know. This article will explain the meaning of the code and how to repair the issue.
What is OBD-II Code P1299 – Cylinder Head Overtemperature Protection Active?
OBD-II Code P1299 indicates that the engine control module (ECM) has detected that the engine has exceeded its maximum temperature limit. Modern engines rely on a cooling system to maintain an optimal engine temperature. When the engine gets too hot, it can cause severe damage to the engine components, such as the cylinder head or gaskets. Code P1299 activates the Cylinder Head Overtemperature Protection (CHOP) function, which turns off the engine to prevent any damage to the engine’s components.
The CHOP function uses a system of sensors to measure the engine’s temperature and activate the function if the engine temperature goes beyond the predetermined limit.
What are the common causes of OBD-II Code P1299?
OBD-II Code P1299 is not a straightforward code to diagnose because it could have several causes, including:
1. Malfunctioning cooling system: A poorly working cooling system could lead to the engine overheating and activating the CHOP function.
2. Blown head gasket: A blown head gasket could cause the engine to overheat and trigger the CHOP function.
3. Failed thermostat: The thermostat could fail, leading to improper engine temperature regulation.
4. Faulty temperature sensor: A damaged temperature sensor could provide incorrect readings that could trick the CHOP function into activating when it’s not necessary.
5. Damaged wiring or connectors: The wiring or connectors could get corroded, leading to an open circuit or short circuit, which could trigger the CHOP function, giving you a false positive.
How to diagnose the issue
Diagnosing the issue causing Code P1299 is done by following some diagnostic procedures such as:
1. Conducting a thorough visual inspection: The inspection aims to detect any visible faults, including leaks and corrosion.
2. Checking the coolant level and quality: A low coolant level or poor quality could lead to overheating, triggering the CHOP function.
3. Testing the thermostat: Testing the thermostat involves removing it and running tests to determine its opening temperature and proper functioning.
4. Testing the engine temperature sensor: Testing the engine temperature sensor involves measuring the resistance and comparing it with the manufacturer’s values.
5. Testing the cylinder head temperature sensor: The CHOP function uses the cylinder head temperature sensor to determine if it needs to activate. To test the sensor, you measure its resistance and compare it with the manufacturer’s values.
How to repair the issue
Once you have identified the problem, repairing the issue involves:
1. Replacing the thermostat: Replacing a faulty thermostat is a straightforward process. You remove the old thermostat and replace it with a new one.
2. Repairing the cooling system: Repairs could include fixing any leaks, replacing hoses, or the radiator.
3. Replacing damaged wiring or connectors: Once you’ve identified the wiring or connector causing the issue, you either repair or replace the damaged parts.
4. Flushing the coolant system: Flushing the coolant system involves removing the old coolant and replacing it with a new one.
5. Replacing the cylinder head temperature sensor: Replacing the sensor involves removing the old sensor and replacing it with a new one.
FAQs
1. What harm can overheating cause to engine components?
Overheating can cause significant damage to engine components, including both internal and external parts. The damage could be as minor as damaged head gaskets or massive as a warped cylinder head.
2. Can I continue driving even with Code P1299 active?
It’s not advisable to continue driving with Code P1299 active. It means that your engine is overheating, and continuing to drive could cause significant damage to your engine components.
3. What should I do if I see Code P1299 on my scanner?
If you see Code P1299 on your scanner, you should park your car in a safe place and turn off the engine. Once it’s safe, you should then call for a mechanic.
4. How much will it cost to repair Code P1299?
The cost of repairing Code P1299 could range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the cause of the issue.
5. How often should I have my car’s cooling system checked?
You should have your car’s cooling system checked at least once a year or every 12,000 miles.
Conclusion
Code P1299 is a critical code that could save your engine from significant damage. If you notice the code on your scanner, you should act immediately and have it checked by a qualified mechanic. By knowing what causes the issue and how to diagnose it, you can save yourself the hassle and cost of significant engine repairs.
Resources:
https://axleaddict.com/auto-repair/P1299-Ford-Diagnosis-What-Does-It-Mean-and-How-To-Fix-It
https://www.autocodes.com/p1299.html
https://repairpal.com/obd-ii-code-p1299
https://mechanicbase.com/engine/ford-p1299/