61 Engine coolant temperature circuit grounded
How to read it
Code 61 reads as 6 flashes, pause, 1 flash on the check-engine light. Jumper the self-test input to signal return at the test connector, then run the key on engine off self test and the running self test, counting the check-engine flashes each time.
New to flash codes? The OBD-I code reading guide walks through the paperclip method, code 12, and reading two-digit codes.
What does Ford code 61 mean?
61. Engine coolant temperature circuit grounded. This code sets when your vehicle computer detects engine coolant temperature circuit grounded.
Common causes of 61
- Short to ground in the sensor circuit
- Faulty coolant temperature sensor
- Chafed sensor wiring touching ground
- Corroded connector
- PCM input fault
How to fix 61
- Confirm the code and inspect the sensor wiring for a short to ground
- Unplug the sensor and see if the reading swings to confirm the fault
- Test the sensor resistance against the factory chart
- Repair wiring before replacing the sensor
- Replace the sensor only after the wiring test fails