P0119 — Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Intermittent/Erratic

What Does P0119 Mean?

P0119 is a diagnostic trouble code indicating: Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Intermittent/Erratic. This code relates to the fuel and air metering system. It has been reported in NHTSA complaints across 3 different vehicle models.

Symptoms of P0119

⚠️ Check engine light illuminated
⚠️ Loss of engine power
⚠️ Airbag warning light on

Common Causes

🔍 Wiring or connector problem

P0119 Reports by Year

2012

1

2015

1

2018

1

Real Owner Reports

From NHTSA complaint database — actual owner descriptions.

"WIFE WAS DRIVING HER 2003 FORD ESCAPE 2.3L XLS (FWD, 5-SPD MANUAL) AT 65MPH, PRACTICALLY COASTING DOWN A HILL. 26 MINUTES AFTER ENGINE START SHE HEARD A LOUD BANG AND SUBSEQUENT POPPING SOUNDS. THIS WAS FOLLOWED IMMEDIATELY BY SEVERE POWER LOSS FROM THE ENGINE. SHE DROVE IT TO THE NEXT BEST OFF-RAMP"
— Ford Escape owner, 11/13/2012

"FIRST OCCURRENCE EXHIBITED FLICKERING DASHBOARD LIGHTS BEFORE THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM WENT COMPLETELY DEAD AND THE ENGINE QUIT WHILE ACCELERATING AT APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH. PUT VEHICLE IN NEUTRAL AND WAS ABLE TO RESTART ENGINE NORMALLY BEFORE COMING TO A STOP. HAVE EXPERIENCED SEVERAL SHORT INSTANCES "
— Ford Expedition owner, 04/15/2015

"AC WON'T COME ON OR JUST SHUTS OFF WHILE DRIVING, SOMETIMES THE SERVICE AIRBAG WARNING COMES ON, SOMETIMES IT SETS A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CODE P0119, IF THE RECIRCULATE BUTTON IS NOT ON THEN IT LIGHTS UP AND AC COMPRESSOR SHUTS OFF, PULL OVER OUT OF TRAFFIC AND SHUT THE CAR OFF AND LET EVERYTHING COME"
— Chevrolet Traverse owner, 10/06/2018

Source: NHTSA Complaints Database

Most Reported Vehicles for P0119

Based on NHTSA owner complaint data.

#	Vehicle	Reports
1	FORD ESCAPE
2	FORD EXPEDITION
3	CHEVROLET TRAVERSE

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with this code?

You can usually drive short distances, but fuel economy will suffer and emissions will be higher. Get it diagnosed within a week.

Will this code cause my car to fail emissions?

Yes — any active check engine light will cause an automatic emissions test failure in most states.

How much does it typically cost to fix?

Depends on the root cause. Simple fixes like a gas cap ($5-15) to sensor replacement ($150-300) to more complex repairs ($500+).

What To Do Next

Possible Fixes

🔧 Have the code scanned with a professional-grade scanner to read freeze frame data
🔧 Inspect wiring harness and connectors for damage, corrosion, or loose connections
🔧 Clean or replace the mass air flow (MAF) sensor; check for vacuum leaks
🔧 If DIY repair isn't feasible, get a diagnostic from a trusted mechanic ($50-150)

1
Find your vehicle above
Click your make and model for real owner reports and common causes specific to your vehicle.
2
Check for recalls
Go to nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your VIN. Free repairs if covered.
3
Get a professional diagnosis
A code alone doesn't identify the exact failed part. A diagnostic ($50–$150) pinpoints the root cause.

P0119: Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit Intermittent/Erratic