I know there have been a few other threads about this issue, but none of them are clear on what the solution is to the issue. I have a 2006 F150 with 285,000 miles. I purchased used, but have kept it maintained and it runs well. The only issue I am having is randomly the reduced engine power light will come on and the temp will show hot on the instrument panel. I have verified the truck is not hot and the engine power is not reduced. Not even a little hot or a little sluggish. It does not go in to limp mode. The light just comes on and the temp shows hot on my instrument panel. I am not real technical, but I thought it would have to be a sensor of some sort since they are false readings. I was just hoping to get an idea of what the issue is before I have someone go in and just start replacing things that possibly didn't need replaced. I am not a mechanic and I don't know the technical jargon, so please respond in layman terms. TIA.

I don't think this is related, but I do have a small camper that we pull sometimes. It is not while we are pulling the trailer that the light comes on. It comes on without the trailer being pulled. Some people referenced the trailer pulling to be a possible cause to the issue.

 

The truck runs under the commands from the computer and according to feed back from sensors.
The program the computer runs on takes input from the sensors to make operational changes.
In the program, there are monitor functions for many actions.
Your issue involves monitoring the coolant temperature.
If it goes beyond a value set in the program, a code is set and a CEL dash lamp lights.
If your sure the engine does not over heat, that leaves a false signal to the computer as the cause.
It could be the sensor, the wiring, a thermostat sticking closed, low coolant level, fan clutch or even the water pump or a dash fault.
To help find the cause a Scanner should be used to look at the cylinder head temperature from the sensor that the computer monitors to see what is happening to the temperature, first and get a direction to work in.
.Do not begin replacing parts trying to get lucky. It cost extra in parts and labor better spent on diagnostics first to minimize the repair effort.

 

Thank you so much. I will start with that.

Tina

 

If the scanner corresponds with the dash gauge and you are positive it's not overheating - you can use a IR thermometer on the thermostat housing to check - most likely cause is the CHT sensor.

 

just replace the cht sensor and all will be good 👍