Check Engine Light Part II

[Jayson]

This is the second part of a topic that a few of us were involved in about 2 weeks ago:

I've just returned from our local dealer here in good ol San Diego with a feeling of satisfaction. I took my Explorer in with the "check engine light" on. I had the service department diagnose what was wrong and they came back with the following parts and the estimate below:

EEC Test Codes 172-176-157
Needs both EGOS, MAF and Fuel Injector Cleaned.

Parts to be replaced or needed: Left EGO ($123.65); Right EGO (123.65); Mass Air Sensor (185.00); and soem sort of Fuel Injector Cleaner ($48).

Labor Charge $104 (2.5 hours of labor) for the injector service & $175 for the installation of the new sensors.

The total estimate was $770. I thanked the service writer for his time and drove away. Does this estimate sound square? I plan on buying my own parts on-line. Can I buy an aftermarket mass air flow sensor that is manufactured for performance without running into any problems?

Thanks,
Jayson

 

[Ira]

Jayson,
You did not mention what year yours is. I would suggest cleaning the MAF instead of replacing it. I know on my model, it is about a 15 minute process at most. I would say that the newer models can also be cleaned. I would start out with that, reset the computer, drive it for a while and see if that takes care of the problems. Ford does not want to tell you it can be cleaned. They would rather sell you a new one instead. Don't get your hopes up, but don't get anxious and get burned either.

As for the fuel injector cleaner, I prefer to use my own that you mix in the tank. I think your dealer is trying to get you for everything they can. Too many of them want to do everything they can when many times it is not necessary.

Here is a link to detailed instructions for cleaning the MAF, the bottom sections of the instructions will be worth your time reading. Dead Link Removed

Keep us informed and let us know what you find.



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Ira
91 XLT 4x4

I used to be schizophrenic, but we're OK now...No we aren't...Yes we are... shut up.

 

[Jayson]

Yes, year, make, and model would have helped you all out a bunch huh?

1993 Ford Explorer XLT with approx 137,500 miles.

Thanks Ira,
Jayson

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Jayson Woodard
San Diego, CA

 

[Jayson]

Ira,

With those codes that Ford gave me, what do they have to do with fuel injectors? I was using my Haynes Manual and saw no mention of clean fuel injectors. Also, I am assuming EGOS are 02 sensors, right?

Jayson

 

[FMNavajo]

Jason,
Yes the EGOS are Exhaust Gas Oxygen Sensors or O2 sensors. It(s) located just in front of the Catalic converter and is screwed in to the Exhaust pipe. A 22mm wrench will take this out and I purchased a new Tomco O2 for $55.00 via Carparts and replaced it in 2 minutes. It's much easier to reach the wire connector through the passenger wheel well.
The MAF or Mass Air Flow sensor is located on the top of the air intake tube next to the Air box, you'll need a size T20 or T21 security star bit to get this off, you can get these at any carparts store. Once off you can use Carb Cleaner to spray any buildup or dirt off, let it dry and reinstall it. Disconnect the battery for a minute or so to clear any codes then check it out.
Another thing to check is the the #5 spark plug and see if there is carbon build up on it, if so you'll either need to re-tighten the intake manifold bolts or change the gasket depending on how bad the plug is. Compare the #5 plug to any other plug to see if it's worse than the others.

Hope this helps you out,
FMNavajo