Engine seems to be running hot

[DStielerinFL]

I recently bought a used 2018 Explorer Platinum, with 36,000 miles on it. Carfax report is clean and dealer maintenance history shows only major repair was replacing the turbocharger. I'm still getting familiar with the vehicle and noticed it was very warm when walking around the front of the vehicle. I opened the hood and found that the hood support rod was almost too hot to touch! Any suggestions as to what to look for?

 

[peterk9]

Was the temperature gauge showing above the midpoint? It isn't all that accurate but should be an indication of a possible problem. Is the coolant level okay?

Peter

 

[Mbrooks420]

That’s not really a valid tell of anything. With the right paint colors these can easily get the metal of the body too hot to touch in just the direct sun.

Like above Check that the gauge rides in the center of the gauge.

 

[DStielerinFL]

Was the temperature gauge showing above the midpoint? It isn't all that accurate but should be an indication of a possible problem. Is the coolant level okay?

Peter

Vehicle was sitting for 15-20 minutes when I noticed this condition, so I hadn't noticed temp gauge reading. I checked the coolant level, it's on the low side, but within the band. I ran an OBD check and got a P0299 code for 'Turbo/Supercharger underboost', not sure if that could be the heat source?!? I'm going to top off the coolant and keep an eye on it!

 

[DStielerinFL]

That’s not really a valid tell of anything. With the right paint colors these can easily get the metal of the body too hot to touch in just the direct sun.

Like above Check that the gauge rides in the center of the gauge.

It was parked in the garage!

 

[peterk9]

P0299-What Does An Underboost Code Mean? - Alex's Autohaus - European Auto Repair in Midvale, Utah

A P0299 code is an extremely common issue that can indicate a variety of issues ranging from failed wastegate to a disconnected charge pipe.

www.alexsautohaus.com

p0299 - Google Search

It is something that definitely should be looked at,
There is a thread here on a 2013 with the same code but it was never followed up as to a fix. I just asked the member if he had it repaired.

2013 Sport with P0299 code (Underboost)

I keep getting the P0299 code for Turbo (driver side) Underboost. I tightened all of the hoses up, cleared the code and it now it has come back again. I don't really notice any power loss and the engine light never comes on. I have read that this is common on the F150s but that is related to...

www.explorerforum.com

Peter