P1285 fault code: what it means

P1285: Ford code: cylinder head over-temperature sensed. Engine running far too hot.

Engine and gearbox (powertrain) · Safety risk

Usual causes, most likely first

1. low coolant
2. cooling fan or thermostat fault
3. water pump
4. head temp sensor

P1285 by make

What the repair usually costs

• Water pump replacement (belt-driven, not behind timing cover)NZ$340–NZ$770 · A$340–A$760
• Water pump with timing belt kit (timing-belt-driven pump)NZ$770–NZ$1,970 · A$780–A$1,970
• Water pump inside timing cover (chain engine)NZ$980–NZ$2,100 · A$1,020–A$2,160
• Radiator cooling fan motor or fan assemblyNZ$350–NZ$1,280 · A$330–A$1,210

Not sure what P1285 means on your car? Ask Credov.

Before you clear it

Write the code down or photograph the scanner first. A code that comes straight back after clearing points to a fault that is still there. A car whose codes were cleared just before you arrived may be hiding one: the scanner's readiness monitors show "not ready" for a while after codes are cleared.

Researched by Credov from manufacturer and workshop sources. A fault code points to where a fault may be; a workshop confirms it with a diagnosis. Browse all fault codes.