P0168
Stop drivingEngine Oil Temperature Too High
Code P0168 means your engine oil temperature is too high. Common causes: Actual engine overheating (60%), faulty oil temperature sensor (30%), wiring issues (8%). Drivability: No, stop driving immediately. Repair cost: $50-$300 DIY, $150-$1500 professional.
Can I Drive With P0168?
No, stop driving
Immediate repair needed
Stop driving immediately if: Flashing CEL, loud noises, burning smell, rotten egg smell, significant power loss, steam from under the hood
Symptoms of P0168
- 1Engine overheating warning light on dashboard
- 2Engine temperature gauge reads high
- 3Burning smell from the engine bay
- 4Reduced engine power or limp mode
- 5Steam coming from under the hood
Common Causes of P0168
Parts most likely causing this code, ranked by probability
The engine is genuinely running too hot due to issues like low coolant, a faulty thermostat, a bad water pump, a clogged radiator, or non-working cooling fans.
60% of P0168 cases are caused by actual engine overheating
A faulty EOT sensor sends an incorrect high temperature reading to the engine computer, even if the engine is not actually overheating.
30% of P0168 cases are fixed by replacing this part
Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring or a faulty connector can disrupt the signal from the EOT sensor, causing an incorrect high reading.
8% of P0168 cases are fixed by repairing wiring or connectors
A rare but possible cause where the engine's computer itself is faulty, misinterpreting sensor data or failing to regulate engine temperature correctly.
2% of P0168 cases are fixed by replacing the ECM/PCM
Check These First (Before Buying Parts)
- Check engine coolant level in both the reservoir and radiator.
- Look for any visible coolant leaks under the vehicle or around hoses.
- Verify that your cooling fans are turning on when the engine gets warm or the AC is running.
How to Diagnose P0168
- 1Immediately check your engine coolant level and condition in the reservoir and radiator.
- 2Visually inspect for any obvious coolant leaks around hoses, radiator, and water pump.
- 3Check if your cooling fans are operating when the engine is warm or the AC is on.
- 4Use an OBD-II scan tool to monitor live data for both Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) and Engine Oil Temperature (EOT) readings.
- 5Compare the live data readings to normal operating temperatures for your vehicle (typically 195-220°F).
- 6Inspect the Engine Oil Temperature sensor and its electrical connector for any visible damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
- 7If the cooling system appears to be functioning correctly and the EOT sensor is suspected, test the sensor's resistance with a multimeter if specifications are available.
P0168 on Popular Vehicles
Ford F-150
2011-2024Ford F-150s, particularly those with EcoBoost engines, can be susceptible to cooling system issues under heavy load or with age. Always verify actual engine temperature with a scan tool before replacing the EOT sensor.
65% fixed by addressing cooling system, 25% by EOT sensor
Chevrolet Silverado
2007-2024Silverado trucks can experience P0168 due to a failing EOT sensor or, more critically, actual overheating from a faulty water pump, radiator, or thermostat. Check for coolant leaks thoroughly.
60% fixed by addressing cooling system, 30% by EOT sensor
Honda Accord
2003-2024While less common for EOT sensor failures, P0168 on an Accord demands immediate attention to the cooling system. Check for low coolant, radiator fan operation, and thermostat function.
70% fixed by addressing cooling system, 20% by EOT sensor
Frequently Asked Questions
What does P0168 mean?
P0168 indicates that your engine's computer has detected that the engine oil temperature is exceeding its normal operating limit, signaling a potential overheating condition.
Can I drive with P0168?
No, stop driving immediately. This code signals a critical issue that can lead to severe and expensive engine damage if ignored. Continuing to drive risks blowing head gaskets, warping cylinder heads, or even seizing the engine.
Will P0168 clear itself?
No, P0168 will not clear itself. This code points to a serious problem that requires diagnosis and repair. The Check Engine Light will remain on until the underlying cause of the high oil temperature is resolved and the code is cleared with a scan tool.
How do I fix P0168 myself?
Start by checking your coolant level and cooling fan operation. If the engine is truly overheating, you'll need to diagnose the cooling system (thermostat, water pump, radiator). If the engine isn't overheating, you can inspect and potentially replace the Engine Oil Temperature sensor or repair its wiring.
How much does it cost to fix P0168?
DIY costs range from $50-$300, primarily for an EOT sensor, coolant, or a thermostat. Professional repair costs can range from $150-$1500 or more, depending on whether it's a sensor, a thermostat, a water pump, or a radiator causing the actual overheating.
P0168 keeps coming back - why?
If P0168 keeps returning, it means the root cause of the high oil temperature has not been fully addressed. This often happens if you only replaced the EOT sensor when the actual problem is an overheating engine due to a faulty thermostat, water pump, or clogged radiator.
Will P0168 fail emissions/smog test?
Yes, P0168 will cause your vehicle to fail an emissions or smog test. A Check Engine Light indicating a critical engine temperature issue is an automatic failure in states with inspection programs.
What's the difference between P0168 and P0217?
P0168 specifically indicates that the engine oil temperature is too high. P0217 is a more general code for an 'Engine Over Temperature Condition,' which can be triggered by high coolant temperature or other overheating indicators. Both are critical and demand immediate attention.
P0168 on Ford F-150?
On Ford F-150s, especially EcoBoost models, P0168 can sometimes point to a failing Engine Oil Temperature sensor, but it's equally important to rule out actual cooling system issues like a stuck thermostat or a failing water pump, which are common stress points on these trucks.
Questions to Ask Your Mechanic
Did you confirm the actual engine oil and coolant temperatures with a scan tool?
Good answer: Yes, I monitored live data. The coolant was at 205°F and the oil was at 240°F, indicating a true overheating condition, or the temperatures were normal, pointing to a sensor issue.
What did you find when inspecting the cooling system components (radiator, fans, water pump, thermostat)?
Good answer: I found the radiator fan was not engaging, or the thermostat was stuck closed, or there was a significant coolant leak from the water pump.
Repair Cost Estimate
DIY Repair
Parts only
$50-$300
Shop Repair
Parts + labor
$150-$1500
Save $100-$1200+ by doing it yourself
Difficulty
intermediate
Time
1-4 hours
Intermediate. While replacing an EOT sensor can be straightforward, accurately diagnosing whether the engine is truly overheating or if the sensor is faulty requires a good understanding of cooling systems and the use of a scan tool.
Cost of Waiting
Ignoring P0168 when actual overheating is present will lead to catastrophic engine damage, including blown head gaskets, warped cylinder heads, or a completely seized engine. A $50-$300 sensor or cooling system component fix now prevents a $3,000-$8,000 engine replacement later.
While You're In There...
If you are diagnosing or replacing other cooling system components, replacing the thermostat is a low-cost preventative measure that often requires similar labor to access.
If your vehicle is older and you're working on the cooling system, replacing brittle or swollen coolant hoses prevents future leaks and repeat repairs.
Any work on the cooling system will require draining and refilling coolant. A fresh coolant flush ensures proper heat transfer and protects your engine.
Tools You'll Need
- OBD-II Scan Tool (with live data capability)
- Basic Hand Tools (sockets, wrenches)
- Multimeter (for sensor testing)
- Coolant Drain Pan
- Funnel
- Safety Glasses
- Gloves
P0168 is a serious code, but acting quickly can prevent major engine damage. Most repairs involve addressing a specific cooling system component or a sensor, and your engine will run correctly afterward.
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Your Next Steps
Step 1: Immediately pull over and shut off your engine. Check your coolant level and look for any obvious leaks. Do not open a hot radiator cap.
Step 2: If coolant is low, add the correct type of coolant. If the engine still overheats, stop driving. If coolant is full, use a scan tool to monitor live ECT and EOT data.
Step 3: If live data confirms actual high temperatures, diagnose the cooling system (thermostat, water pump, radiator, cooling fans). If temperatures are normal but P0168 persists, suspect the EOT sensor or its wiring. Parts you'll likely need: Engine Oil Temperature Sensor, Thermostat, or specific cooling system components like a water pump or radiator.