John Deere Error Code F13042 — What It Means and How to Fix It
Applies to: 6R Series, 7R Series, 8R Series, 9R Series
You can keep working for now. Replace the sensor before your next full day — running blind on coolant temp risks an overheating event you won't see coming.
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor — Signal Out of Range
The ECU is receiving a coolant temperature reading outside the expected range. Most likely a failed sensor.
Repair difficulty
DIY — Basic toolsRepair time
30 min
Dealer cost
$350-500
What to check first
- 1
Check the coolant level in the overflow tank — if it's low, top up and look for the leak first.
- 2
Locate the sensor on the thermostat housing and inspect the 2-pin connector for corrosion or a pulled-out pin.
- 3
Wiggle the wiring harness while the engine is running — if the code clears intermittently, it's a connector or wire issue, not the sensor.
Likely causes
- 1
Faulty coolant temperature sensor— Most likely
Most common cause. Sensors typically fail after 4,000–5,000 hours. Resistance drifts outside spec and triggers the fault.
- 2
Damaged wiring harness to sensor— Possible
Check for rodent damage, chafing against engine components, or corroded connectors. Wiggle the harness with the key on and watch for intermittent faults.
- 3
ECU fault— Less common
Rare. Rule out sensor and wiring first. If a new sensor doesn't clear the code, have the ECU checked.
Parts needed
- Search for this part →
Coolant temperature sensor
OEM: RE522824$45
Tools needed
- 10mm socket
- ratchet
- coolant (if drained)
Related codes
Community threads
TractorByNet
F13042 on 7R — cleared by replacing RE522824, full write-up
Owner replaced the sensor in 25 minutes with a 10mm socket. Code did not return after 200 hours.
AgTalk
Intermittent F13042 — turned out to be corroded connector, not sensor
Corrosion on pin 2 of the sensor connector was causing an intermittent open. Cleaned with contact cleaner, crimped a new pin, code gone.
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