Where is the temperature sensor on a 2014 Ford Fiesta?
The 2014 Ford Fiesta has two temperature sensors you’re most likely dealing with: the ambient outside-air temperature sensor, which feeds the dash’s outside-temperature reading, and the engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor, which informs the engine computer and gauge about coolant temperature.
Knowing which sensor you need helps you diagnose issues ranging from a wonky outside-temperature display to rough starts or cooling-system concerns. The exact location varies by engine and trim, so it’s important to identify which sensor is in question before attempting removal or replacement.
Two main temperature sensors on the Fiesta
Below are the two sensors most often referenced when people ask where the temperature sensor is, along with where they’re typically located and how to identify them.
Ambient outside air temperature sensor
Where it sits and how to recognize it
- Location: usually tucked behind the front bumper on the passenger side, in or near the grille or bumper opening. Access may require removing or loosening the bumper fascia depending on trim.
- Appearance and wiring: a small plastic sensor with a short electrical pigtail or connector; may be integrated into the bumper assembly or mounted near the radiator support.
Conclusion: In most Fiesta models, the ambient sensor is mounted in the bumper area, and you’ll typically need to access the bumper to inspect or replace it.
Engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor
Where it sits and how to identify it
- Location: mounted on the engine block or cylinder head near a coolant passage, often close to the thermostat housing. The exact spot can vary by engine type (1.6L Duratec is common in the 2014 Fiesta).
- Appearance and wiring: a small threaded sensor with an electrical connector, reading coolant temperature as it circulates through the engine.
Conclusion: The ECT sensor is in the engine bay, attached to a coolant passage; replacement usually involves working with the cooling system and may require coolant drainage.
Note: If you’re diagnosing a gauge discrepancy or a sensor fault, you may benefit from an OBD-II scan to pull live data for the ambient temperature reading and the engine coolant temperature, which can help confirm which sensor is at fault.
Summary: For the 2014 Ford Fiesta, the temperature-related readings you’ll encounter come from two sensors—the ambient outside-air sensor located behind the front bumper and the engine coolant temperature sensor mounted on the engine block near the thermostat. Identifying which sensor is involved guides your inspection, diagnosis, and any replacement work.
What is the most common problem with the 2014 Ford Fiesta?
According to CarComplaints.com, the most commonly reported problem in recent years affects the 2014 Ford Fiesta, which has been said to suffer an “intermittent shudder when taking off.” Other issues reported by consumers include transmission failure and acceleration problems (like jerking and hesitation).
What are the symptoms of a bad temperature sensor?
Symptoms of a bad temperature sensor include an illuminated check engine light, poor fuel economy, and an overheating or under-heating engine. Other signs are a rough idle, black smoke from the exhaust, difficulty starting, and erratic or fluctuating temperature gauge readings.
Engine and performance issues
- Poor fuel economy: The engine's computer may overcompensate for a "cold" reading, sending too much fuel.
- Engine overheating: A faulty sensor can prevent the cooling fans from turning on.
- Rough idling or stalling: Incorrect temperature data can lead to an improper air-fuel mixture.
- Hard starting: The computer uses the temperature sensor for starting and spark timing, so a faulty sensor can make the car difficult to start.
- Black smoke from the exhaust: This can occur if the engine runs too rich with an incorrect fuel mixture.
- Decreased engine performance: The engine may feel sluggish or generally less powerful.
Gauge and light indicators
- Check engine light: The vehicle's computer will likely detect the issue and turn on the check engine light.
- Inaccurate temperature gauge: The gauge may show the engine is too hot, too cold, or jump erratically between readings.
Cooling system problems
- Cooling fan malfunction: The cooling fans may not turn on when needed, or they may run constantly, which also indicates a sensor problem.
- Thermostat issues: A faulty sensor can cause the thermostat to malfunction because they work together to regulate temperature.
Where is my temperature sensor located?
Your vehicle's engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor is typically located near the thermostat housing on the engine, which is often at the top of the engine block where the upper radiator hose connects. It may also be found in a cylinder head or on or near the water pump housing. You can also locate it by following the upper radiator hose to where it connects to the engine.
This video shows the location of the engine coolant temperature sensor: 1mAuto Repair GuysYouTube · Jun 21, 2019
- Common location: Near the thermostat housing, on the cylinder head, or on the engine block.
- How to find it: Trace the upper radiator hose to where it connects to the engine (the intake manifold or cylinder head).
- Visual aid: Look for a sensor with a wire harness plugged into it.
- Note: Some vehicles may have a second sensor for the dashboard gauge.
Where is the outside temperature sensor on a Ford Fiesta?
Connector and temperature sensor behind the front bumper. It is on the driver´s side just over of the intercooler.
