QT1 CARRY OUT THE PCM QUICK TEST
Note. For applications that use a stand-alone transmission control module (TCM), the PCM does not output TCM related diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). Refer to the Workshop Manual Section 307-01, Automatic Transaxle/Transmission, diagnostic strategy to continue diagnosis.
- Complete the preliminary checks looking for obvious concerns that may relate to the symptom. Check for the following items: fuses electrical circuits and connectors vacuum lines (leaks, routing) air intake system (leaks, restrictions) fuel quality (octane, contamination, winter/summer blend) cooling system (engine operating at correct temperature)
- Access any related On-line Automotive Service Information System (OASIS) or Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) information (if available).
- Carry out the PCM self-test to access any DTCs. Record any key on engine off (KOEO), key on engine running (KOER) (if the engine runs) and continuous memory (MIL and non-MIL) DTCs.
- Are any DTCs present?
| Yes | No |
| GO to DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) CHARTS AND DESCRIPTIONS for direction to repair DTCs after noting the following: DIAGNOSE the DTCs in the following order (begin diagnosis with the first DTC output in that mode and diagnose any circuit related DTCs first). For multiple circuit DTCs that are set as a result of a concern with more than one component, REFER to the Wiring Diagrams Manual Electronic Engine Controls Cell and identify the common cause such as SIGRTN, VREF, or VPWR. Continue DTC diagnosis by referring to the appropriately identified pinpoint test. Any KOEO self-test DTCs Any KOER self-test DTCs Any continuous memory self-test DTCs. Retrieve any available freeze frame data and disregard any identical/related continuous DTCs already repaired. | GO to NO DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCS) PRESENT SYMPTOM CHART INDEX for direction to the correct symptom chart in NO DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCS) PRESENT SYMPTOM CHARTS . If the symptom is not listed, REFER to the applicable Workshop Manual Section to continue diagnosis. |
No Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) Present Symptom Chart Index
Driveability - Performance While Driving Concerns
Note: OASIS identifiers (the x means any number (1-9) can be used) xxx4xx equals during idle, xxx5xx equals during acceleration, xxx6xx equals during cruise, xxx7xx equals during deceleration.
Additional Driveability Concerns
Chart 1
- Stalls/Quits: Idle, Acceleration, Cruise, Stall After Start
- Runs Rough
- Misses
- Buck/Jerk
- Hesitation/Stumble
- Surge
- Unique Idle Concerns: Rolling Idle
Note. For some vehicle applications, the engine may stall if left running while refueling. Advise the customer to turn the engine off while refueling to avoid contamination or damage to the evaporative emission (EVAP) system.
| SYSTEM/COMPONENT | REFERENCE (Section 5 Pinpoint Test unless noted) |
| Check the following parameter identifiers (PIDs): DPFEGR (if equipped) (hot idle value within 0.15 volt of the key ON, engine OFF value) LONGFT1/LONGFT2 (value between -20 and +20%) VPWR (value between 10.5 and 17.0 volts, and within 0.5 volt of battery voltage) | DPFEGR PID value not within 0.15 volt of key ON, engine OFF value: For vehicles equipped with an exhaust gas recirculation system module (ESM), refer to PINPOINT TEST HH - Exhaust Gas Recirculation System Module (ESM) . For all others, refer to PINPOINT TEST HE - Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Systems . LONGFT1/LONGFT2 value low (-): Continue diagnosis. Concentrate checks in areas that would cause the engine to run rich. LONGFT1/LONGFT2 value high (+): Continue diagnosis. Concentrate checks in areas that would cause the engine to run lean. VPWR not between 10.5 and 17.0 volts: REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 414-00, Charging System and carry out the Inspection and Verification to continue diagnosis. VPWR between 10.5 and 17.0 volts, but not within 0.5 volt of battery voltage: CHECK the B+ voltage to the powertrain control module (PCM) power relay. CHECK the VPWR circuit between the PCM and the PCM power relay. CHECK the PWR GND circuits. |
| For vehicles that run rough at idle: Check the INJx_F PIDs (the "x" indicates the injector number) with the key ON, engine OFF. There is 1 INJx_F PID for each engine cylinder. All INJx_F PIDs must indicate no fault (or NO). | The INJx_F PID(s) indicate a fault (an injector circuit concern is indicated), refer to PINPOINT TEST KG - Fuel Injector . |
| Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor | Refer to PINPOINT TEST DC - Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor . |
| Secondary Ignition System | For vehicles equipped with a coil pack ignition system, refer to PINPOINT TEST JC - Secondary Ignition (Coil Pack) . For all others, refer to PINPOINT TEST JB - Secondary Ignition (COP) . |
| Fuel Delivery System | Refer to PINPOINT TEST HC - Fuel Delivery System . |
| Exhaust System | Refer to PINPOINT TEST HF - Catalyst Efficiency Monitor and Exhaust Systems . |
| Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) System | Refer to PINPOINT TEST HG - Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) System . |
| EVAP System | Refer to PINPOINT TEST HX - Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Monitor and System . |
| Charging System | Refer to PINPOINT TEST HY - Generator/Regulator System . |
| Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S) (for Taurus, Taurus X, Sable PZEVs) | Refer to PINPOINT TEST DZ - Universal Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S) . |
| Automatic Transmission | REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 307-01, Automatic Transmission/Transaxle diagnostic strategy to continue diagnosis. |
| Base Engine | REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 303-00, Engine System and carry out the Inspection and Verification to continue diagnosis. |
| Intake Air System | Refer to PINPOINT TEST HU - Intake Air Systems . |
| A/C Pressure (ACP) Transducer Sensor | Refer to PINPOINT TEST DS - Air Conditioning Pressure (ACP) Sensor . |
| Additional Testing | Refer to PINPOINT TEST Z - Intermittent . |
| Additional Checks: Some vehicles have a TQ_CNTRL PID available. Check this PID to determine if the PCM is reducing torque, and if so, why the torque is being reduced. As a PID display example; 0 equals no torque reduction requested, 1 equals torque truncation, which cuts fuel to protect when line pressure falls to minimum limit and 2 equals traction control event, which cuts fuel/spark for traction control. Correct PCM vehicle identification (VID) block information. Refer to Section 2, FLASH ELECTRICALLY ERASABLE PROGRAMMABLE READ ONLY MEMORY (EEPROM) to carry out the Making Changes to the VID Block procedure. Be aware of engine RPM/speed limiting functions of the PCM (look for incorrect high vehicle speed signal from ABS, VSS, or OSS). Verify the fuel filler cap is correctly tightened or the capless fuel tank filler pipe is correctly sealed and not physically damaged. Driveline Manual transmission/clutch Charging system Traction control system (if equipped) A/C system (for surge with A/C on) Speed control system (for surge with speed control on) A/C compressor diode, if equipped (for rolling idle) | REFER to the applicable Workshop Manual section. |
Chart 2
- Starting Concerns: Hard Start/Long Crank/Erratic Start/Erratic Crank
Chart 3
- Starting Concerns: No Start (Engine Cranks)
Note. An extended crank because of a no start may load the exhaust system with raw fuel, damaging the catalytic converter after the engine starts. For vehicles equipped with a secondary air injection (AIR) system, carry out the following after the no start concern is repaired: Disconnect the electric AIR pump relay, run the engine until the surplus fuel is used up, and connect the relay. Disconnecting the relay may set a continuous memory PCM DTC that needs to be cleared.
Chart 4
- Unique Idle Concerns: Slow Return To Idle
Chart 5
- Unique Idle Concerns: Fast Idle
- Diesels/Runs On
Note. If the vehicle runs normally with the key in the OFF position, check for a damaged ignition switch, an IGN START/RUN or ISP-R circuit short to voltage, or a VPWR circuit short to voltage.
| SYSTEM/COMPONENT | REFERENCE (Section 5 Pinpoint Test unless noted) |
| Base Engine Check for air leaks, including correct sealing of intake manifold and components/vacuum lines attached to intake air (such as the PCV, EGR or IAC valve/vacuum lines). | Visual. REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 303-00, Engine System and carry out the Inspection and Verification to continue diagnosis. |
| Verify the engine operates at normal temperature. | Visual. REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 303-03, Engine Cooling or No Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) Present Symptom Chart Index , to diagnose any cooling system concerns that are present. |
| Fast idle concerns (for vehicles equipped with an IAC valve) With the key ON, engine OFF monitor the TP MODE PID while wiggling the TP sensor circuits. The TP MODE PID can also be monitored during vehicle drive. With the throttle closed, the TP MODE PID must be C/T (closed throttle). | TP MODE PID is not C/T with the throttle closed: At vehicle start, the TPREL begins at about 1.25 volts and counts down to the lowest TP voltage value seen since engine start. If the TP voltage value goes below the normal range, then increases again, TPREL sets to the lower voltage. If the TP voltage is about 0.04 volt greater than the TPREL value at closed throttle, the PCM goes into part throttle mode. MONITOR the TP voltage and TPREL PIDs for sudden changes while checking for intermittent TP circuit/connector concerns. CHECK for loose or worn throttle plates. If no concern is found, refer to PINPOINT TEST Z - Intermittent . |
| Intake Air System Leaks (for vehicles equipped with an IAC valve) | Refer to PINPOINT TEST HU - Intake Air Systems . |
| Additional Testing | Refer to PINPOINT TEST Z - Intermittent . |
Chart 6
- Unique Idle Concerns: Low/Slow Idle
- Stalls/Quits: Deceleration
Chart 7
Chart 8
Note. Verify the symptom is reported under normal driving conditions without excessive engine or vehicle load. Also, be aware of the engine RPM/speed limiting functions of the PCM.
Note. For vehicles equipped with a knock sensor, a lack of power may result when the vehicle is operated with a breakout box installed at the PCM. The knock sensor circuits are not shielded in the breakout box, and knock sensor signal noise may be noticed by the PCM. If this happens, spark timing is retarded and a lack of power may result.
Note. For applications with a knock sensor, a lack of power may result if the engine has developed an abnormal noise. The knock sensors may interpret some abnormal noise as detonation and retard spark timing.
| SYSTEM/COMPONENT | REFERENCE (Section 5 Pinpoint Test unless noted) |
| Automatic Transmission Fluid | Visual |
| Throttle Linkage | Visual |
| Air Cleaner Element | Visual |
| Check the following PIDS: LONGFT1/LONGFT2 (value between -20 and +20%) IMTVF (if equipped): For both key ON, engine OFF and key ON, engine running with the transmission in PARK/NEUTRAL and the engine RPM greater than 3,000 RPM, the PID should indicate no fault (or NO) in both situations. | LONGFT1/LONGFT2 value low (-): Continue diagnosis. Concentrate checks in areas that would cause the engine to run rich. LONGFT1/LONGFT2 value high (+): Continue diagnosis. Concentrate checks in areas that would cause the engine to run lean. IMTVF PID indicates a fault: refer to PINPOINT TEST HU - Intake Air Systems . |
| Fuel Delivery System | Refer to PINPOINT TEST HC - Fuel Delivery System . |
| Secondary Ignition | For vehicles equipped with a coil pack ignition system, refer to PINPOINT TEST JC - Secondary Ignition (Coil Pack) . For all others, refer to PINPOINT TEST JB - Secondary Ignition (COP) . |
| MAF Sensor | Refer to PINPOINT TEST DC - Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor . |
| Exhaust System | Refer to PINPOINT TEST HF - Catalyst Efficiency Monitor and Exhaust Systems . |
| Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) System | Refer to PINPOINT TEST HK - Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) . |
| Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor | Refer to PINPOINT TEST DK - Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor . |
| Base Engine | REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 303-00, Engine System and carry out the Inspection and Verification to continue diagnosis. |
| Automatic Transmission | REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 307-01, Automatic Transmission/Transaxle diagnostic strategy to continue diagnosis. |
| Brake System Drag or Binding | REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 206-00, Brake System. |
| Supercharger Bypass System | Refer to PINPOINT TEST KJ - Supercharger Bypass Control . |
| Additional Testing | Refer to PINPOINT TEST Z - Intermittent . |
| Additional Checks: Some vehicles have a TQ_CNTRL PID available. Check this PID to determine if the PCM is reducing torque, and if so, why the torque is being reduced. As a PID display example; 0 equals no torque reduction requested, 1 equals torque truncation, which cuts fuel to protect when line pressure falls to minimum limit, and 2 equals traction control event, which cuts fuel/spark for traction control. Customer driving habits Correct PCM vehicle identification (VID) block information. Refer to Section 2, FLASH ELECTRICALLY ERASABLE PROGRAMMABLE READ ONLY MEMORY (EEPROM) to carry out the Making Changes to the VID Block procedure. Intake manifold runner control (IMRC) linkage (if equipped) Clutch (M/T) Charging system Engine RPM/speed limiting functions of the PCM (look for incorrect high vehicle speed signal from ABS, VSS, or OSS) | Visual. REFER to the applicable Workshop Manual section. |
Chart 9
Chart 10
Note. Driving styles may have a significant influence on fuel economy. Verify the concern before starting an in-depth diagnosis. If available, use the IDS fuel economy test to verify a concern is present. The following external factors may contribute to poor fuel economy
- stop and go driving
- incorrect tire pressure and size
- vehicle loads (such as trailer towing)
- extended winter warm-up conditions
- high speed driving
- incorrect axle ratio
- road/weather conditions
- aftermarket add-ons
- short run operations
- customer expectations
| SYSTEM/COMPONENT | REFERENCE (Section 5 Pinpoint Test unless noted) |
| Check the following PIDs: LONGFT1/LONGFT2 (value between -20 and +20%) VPWR (value between 10.5 and 17.0 volts, and within 0.5 volt of battery voltage) | LONGFT1/LONGFT2 value low (-): Continue diagnosis. Concentrate checks in areas that would cause the engine to run rich. LONGFT1/LONGFT2 value high (+): Continue diagnosis. Concentrate checks in areas that would cause the engine to run lean. VPWR not between 10.5 and 17.0 volts: REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 414-00, Charging System and carry out the Inspection and Verification to continue diagnosis. VPWR between 10.5 and 17.0 volts, but not within 0.5 volt of battery voltage: CHECK the B+ voltage to the PCM power relay. CHECK the VPWR circuit between the PCM and the PCM power relay. CHECK the PWR GND circuits. |
| Verify the engine operates at normal temperature. | Visual. REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 303-03, Engine Cooling to diagnose any cooling system concerns that are present. |
| Secondary Ignition System | For vehicles equipped with a coil pack ignition system, refer to PINPOINT TEST JC - Secondary Ignition (Coil Pack) . For all others, refer to PINPOINT TEST JB - Secondary Ignition (COP) . |
| Fuel System | Refer to PINPOINT TEST HC - Fuel Delivery System . |
| Exhaust System | Refer to PINPOINT TEST HF - Catalyst Efficiency Monitor and Exhaust Systems . |
| Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) System | Refer to PINPOINT TEST HK - Variable Camshaft Timing (VCT) . |
| Transmission Fluid Level | Visual |
| Automatic Transmission | REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 307-01, Automatic Transmission/Transaxle diagnostic strategy to continue diagnosis. |
| PCV System | Refer to PINPOINT TEST HG - Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) System . |
| Additional Checks: Correct PCM VID block information. Refer to Section 2, FLASH ELECTRICALLY ERASABLE PROGRAMMABLE READ ONLY MEMORY (EEPROM) to carry out the Making Changes to the VID Block procedure. Brake drag Base engine concerns Incorrect PCV valve Contaminated MAF sensor Intake air system | REFER to the applicable Workshop Manual section. |
| Additional Testing | Refer to PINPOINT TEST Z - Intermittent . |
Chart 11
Chart 12
- Warning Indicators: Check Fuel Cap Indicator, Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL), Power Take Off (PTO), Temperature Warning Indicator or Gauge (applications with CHT sensor only), Transmission Control Indicator Lamp (TCIL), Powertrain Malfunction Indicator (Wrench)
- PTO Concerns: Not Working Correctly
Note. If the symptom is both a MIL on and exhaust emission test failure, GO directly to Chart 11. If the engine is a no start, GO directly to Chart 3. If the engine runs rough at idle, GO directly to Chart 1.
| SYSTEM/COMPONENT | REFERENCE (Section 5 Pinpoint Test unless noted) |
| Verify the fuel filler cap is correctly tightened or the capless fuel tank filler pipe is correctly sealed. | Visual |
| Check Fuel Cap Indicator Never/always on | REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 413-01, Instrument Cluster to diagnose the check fuel cap indicator is never/always on or Section 413-08 Information and Message Center to diagnose the CHECK FUEL CAP warning is inoperative. |
| MIL Always on when the engine is running (no DTCs present) Never on (including during indicator prove out) | REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 413-01, Instrument Cluster and carry out the Inspection and Verification to continue diagnosis. |
| PTO PTO indicator never/always on PTO not working correctly | Refer to PINPOINT TEST FB - Power Take Off (PTO) . |
| Temperature Warning Indicator or Gauge (applications with CHT sensor only) Engine cooling system Indicator circuits | For an engine that is overheating, REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 303-03, Engine Cooling to diagnose the engine overheating symptom. Be aware that since a PCM DTC is not present, the PCM is not attempting to activate the indicator. For an engine operating at normal temperature, refer to PINPOINT TEST DL - Cylinder Head Temperature (CHT) Sensor . |
| TCIL Always on when the engine is running (no DTCs present) Never on | For E-Series, refer to PINPOINT TEST TB - Transmission Control Switch (TCS)/ Transmission Control Indicator Lamp (TCIL) . For all others, REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 413-01, Instrument Cluster. |
| Powertrain Malfunction Indicator (Wrench) Never/always on | REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 413-01, Instrument Cluster to diagnose the wrench indicator is never/always on or Section 413-08 Information and Message Center to diagnose the POWERTRAIN MALFUNCTION warning is inoperative . |
| Additional Testing | Refer to PINPOINT TEST Z - Intermittent . |
Chart 13
- Automatic Transmission (A/T) Shift Concerns: Upshift, Downshift, Engagement
| SYSTEM/COMPONENT | REFERENCE (Section 5 Pinpoint Test unless noted) |
| Transmission | REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 307-01, Automatic Transmission/Transaxle diagnostic strategy to continue diagnosis. |
| Additional Tests | Refer to PINPOINT TEST Z - Intermittent . |
Chart 14
- Instrumentation: Tachometer Inoperative, Speedometer/Odometer Inoperative, Boost Gauge Indicates Higher Than Normal Boost, Fuel Gauge Inoperative
| SYSTEM/COMPONENT | REFERENCE (Section 5 Pinpoint Test unless noted) |
| Tachometer Inoperative | REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 413-01, Instrument Cluster to diagnose the incorrect tachometer indication. |
| Speedometer/Odometer Inoperative | REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 413-01, Instrument Cluster to diagnose the inoperative speedometer/odometer. |
| Boost Gauge (for vehicles equipped with a supercharger) Indicates higher than normal boost | For supercharger bypass control concerns, refer to PINPOINT TEST KJ - Supercharger Bypass Control . For charge air cooler (CAC) system concerns, refer to PINPOINT TEST KP - Charge Air Cooler (CAC) Pump . |
| Fuel Gauge Inoperative Fuel gauge always indicates full or empty | REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 413-01, Instrument Cluster to diagnose the incorrect fuel gauge indication. |
| Instrumentation | REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 413-01, Instrument Cluster. |
Chart 15
- Oil System Concerns: High Oil Consumption, Leaks
Chart 16
- Cooling System Concerns: Electric Cooling Fan(s) Does Not Operate (Low, Medium, High or Variable Speed), Cooling Fan Clutch Does Not Operate
Chart 17
- Cooling System Concerns: Electric Cooling Fan(s) Always Runs
Note. This chart is only intended to diagnose an electric cooling fan that always runs with a cool engine and the A/C and defroster off.
| SYSTEM/COMPONENT | REFERENCE (Section 5 Pinpoint Test unless noted) |
| Cooling Fan A/C pressure switch (ACPSW) or ACP transducer sensor circuits | For Crown Victoria/Grand Marquis, Fusion/Milan/MKZ, Edge/MKX, Taurus/Taurus X/Sable, and Town Car, VERIFY the results of the PCM self-test. Visually INSPECT the cooling fan for concerns. For all others, refer to PINPOINT TEST KF - Fan Control (FC) Relays . |
| Cooling System | REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 303-03, Engine Cooling to diagnose the electric cooling fans. |
Chart 18
- Exhaust System Concerns: Visible Smoke
Note. Black smoke indicates a rich fuel mixture, blue smoke indicates burning oil, and white smoke indicates water in the combustion chamber.
Chart 19
- Fuel System Concerns: Odor, Engine Compartment
Chart 20
- Engine Noise (under hood)
| SYSTEM/COMPONENT | REFERENCE (Section 5 Pinpoint Test unless noted) |
| Secondary Ignition System Snap noise that may be due to secondary ignition arcing. | For vehicles equipped with a coil pack ignition system, refer to PINPOINT TEST JC - Secondary Ignition (Coil Pack) . For all others, CHECK the condition of the spark plug boots. |
Chart 21
- Climate Control: Lack of A/C Cooling, A/C Not Functioning, A/C Always On, or A/C Compressor Runs Continuously
| SYSTEM/COMPONENT | REFERENCE (Section 5 Pinpoint Test unless noted) |
| A/C System | If sent here from the Workshop Manual with WAC_F PID indicating a fault (or YES), GO to DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) CHARTS AND DESCRIPTIONS and follow the directions for KOEO DTC P0645. For all others, REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 412-00, Climate Control System. |
Chart 22
- Exhaust System Concerns: Odor (Sulfur or Rotten Egg Smell)
Note. A slight sulfur smell may be normal. Catalysts with less than 8,000-16,000 kilometers (5,000-10,000 miles), either from a new vehicle or new catalyst, are likely to have a sulfur smell due to the highly active state of new catalysts. Installing a new catalyst may actually make the symptom worse.
Chart 23
- Starting Concerns: No Crank
| SYSTEM/COMPONENT | REFERENCE (Section 5 Pinpoint Test unless noted) |
| Add-on Anti-Theft Devices | Visual. CHECK with the customer. |
| Anti-Theft | REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 419-01, Anti-Theft and diagnose the vehicle does not start symptom. |
| Base Engine Starting system | REFER to the Workshop Manual Section 303-06, Starting System and diagnose the engine does not crank symptom. |