2000 Explorer Help

[mayhew9614]

So, we have a 2000 Explorer. Last July, the battery died. We bought a new one. In August, the radiator blew, so we replaced it. In September, it stopped running, suddenly. There were no signs.

We put the battery on the battery charger, and the car will run again.
Today, I got the Battery, alternator, and starter checked. All are fine. Then I had the codes checked, and we got the result of P0171 and P0174 - System too lean in bank 1/2.

Are these problems related? What are your suggestions?

 

[1992fordgreen]

02 sensors need replacing.

 

[BrooklynBay]

Welcome to this forum! Check the intake manifold gaskets for leaks.

 

[koda2000]

Is your BATT/CHARGE light on? Does it light bulb light during the bulb check? Is the mega fuse blown? What is the condition of you battery cables/clamps?

You can have a perfectly good battery and a working alternator, but if the charge doesn't get back to the battery, it will go flat. The best way to check is to put a volt meter across the battery terminals with the engine running. With accessories/lights off you should see around 14.5 volts at the battery. anything around 12 volts (or less) is just battery voltage. Your alternator is not charging the battery. Your vehicle may drive for a day or 2 without the alternator charging the battery, but then it will just stop.

If you BATT/CHARGE light doesn't work, you alternator will not be turned on when you start the engine. If the mega fuse (found at the rear of the power distribution box) is blown your battery will not charge. You can also check the voltage at the alternator's "B" terminal to see if it's putting out voltage (again, you should see at least 14.5 volts w/engine running).

As far as your codes, they indicate a lean condition - unmonitored (post MAF) air getting into the engine and/or not enough fuel (usually intake manifold O-rings/gaskets or other vacuum leak. Sometimes a clogged fuel filter or weak fuel pump). These would have nothing to do with your battery going dead or your radiator. Worn out pre-cat O2 sensors have nothing to do with your charging system. Worn out post-cat O2 sensors have nothing to do with anything except cat efficiency.

Pre-cat O2 sensors are good your around 100,000-120,000 miles. They effect fuel trims and usually lower fuel economy and raise emissions when they go bad.