Engine Failsafe Mode

[tcleator]

I recently bought a 05 Explorer XLT. Sometimes when I start the vehicle the "Test" light comes up on the dash display. If I turn off the vehicle and start it again, the "Test" light is gone and the normal mileage display comes up.

More recently, when I am driving I get the "Engine Failsafe Mode" light with the wrench light as well. The car seems to drive just the same as before the lights came on. The next time I start the car, the "Engine Failsafe Mode" light in now gone.

I am very confused on why the lights come on sometime and not the next. I'm not sure if there is a short or some sort of misreading going on with the computer. I am not very knowledgeable when it come to auto repair and are afraid to take it to the dealer because of how much they charge.

Thanks!

 

[swetrid]

Usual problem is the the throttle body/ tp sensor problem.

 

[lynchy wa]

the only time my x dropped into limp home mode was just after i bought it. the oil needed to be changed and oil life reset to 100%. if you bought it from a dealer, did they offer a limited warranty? or if you bought it privately try a local mechanic you trust. when was the car last serviced? if you dont have service records then for peace of mind its worth doing.

 

[swetrid]

Here is a tsb
Printable View (9 KB)
TSB
05-14-4 WRENCH LIGHT ON WITH BOTH DTC P2106 AND P2135 - VEHICLES BUILT 11/29/2004 AND PRIOR

Publication Date: June 30, 2005

FORD: 2003-2005 Thunderbird
2005 Crown Victoria, Mustang
2004-2005 Explorer, F-150
2005 E-Series, Expedition, F-Super Duty
LINCOLN: 2003-2005 LS
2005 Town Car, Navigator
MERCURY: 2005 Grand Marquis
2004-2005 Mountaineer


This article supersedes TSB 05-09-15 to update the Issue and Dealer Coding.

ISSUE:
Some vehicles built 11/29/2004 and prior may exhibit the wrench light on with both P2106 and P2135 diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

ACTION:
Replace the throttle position sensor (TPS) following the instruction sheet included in the TPS service kit. Reprogram the powertrain control module (PCM) to the latest calibration using WDS release B36.11 and higher, or B37.2 and higher. This new calibration is not included in the B37 CD. Calibration files are also available at www.motorcraft.com.

CAUTION: FAILURE TO FOLLOW THE TPS REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION PROCEDURE WILL RESULT IN DAMAGE TO THE TPS SCREWS.



PART NUMBER PART NAME
3L5Z-9B989-AA TPS (Kit)

LABOR OPERATIONS CLAIMING CHART
Operation Labor Operation Application Time
051404A Check For Codes, Reprogram PCM, 2003-2005 LS 3.9L 1.4 Hrs.
Replace The Throttle 2003-2005 LS 3.0L 0.7 Hr.
Position Sensor, And 2003-2005 T-bird 3.9L 1.4 Hrs.
Perform Final Quick 2004 Explorer 4.0L 0.6 Hr.
Test (Do not use 2004 Explorer 4.6L 0.7 Hr.
with: 12650D, 12650D84, 12650D1, 12650DX1) 2005 Explorer 4.0L And 4.6L 0.7 Hr.
2004 Mountaineer 4.0L 0.6 Hr.
2004 Mountaineer 4.6L 0.7 Hr.
2005 Mountaineer 4.0L And 4.6L 0.7 Hr.
2004-2005 F-150 4.6L 0.6 Hr.
2004-2005 F-150 5.4L 3V 0.7 Hr.
2005 Mustang 4.0L 3V And 4.6L 3V 0.7 Hr.
2005 Crown Victoria 0.7 Hr.
2005 Grand Marquis 0.7 Hr.
2005 Town Car 0.7 Hr.
2005 F-Super Duty 5.4L 3V And 6.8L 3V 0.7 Hr.
2005 E-Series 4.6L, 5.4L and 6.8L 0.9 Hr.
2005 Expedition 5.4L 3V 1.0 Hrs.
2005 Navigator 5.4L 3V 1.0 Hrs.



WARRANTY STATUS:
Eligible Under Provisions Of New Vehicle Limited Warranty Coverage And Emissions Warranty Coverage

DEALER CODING
BASIC PART NO. CONDITION CODE
9E928 42

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NOTE: The information in Technical Service Bulletins is intended for use by trained, professional technicians with the knowledge, tools, and equipment to do the job properly and safely. It informs these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or provides information that could assist in proper vehicle service. The procedures should not be performed by "do-it-yourselfers". Do not assume that a condition described affects your car or truck. Contact a Ford, Lincoln, or Mercury dealership to determine whether the Bulletin applies to your vehicle. Warranty Policy and Extended Service Plan documentation determine Warranty and/or Extended Service Plan coverage unless stated otherwise in the TSB article. The information in this Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) was current at the time of printing. Ford Motor Company reserves the right to supercede this information with updates. The most recent information is available through Ford Motor Company's on-line technical resources.

Copyright © 2005 Ford Motor Company