HELP — external temperature showing three dashes -- NO HEAT OR AC

[texsn95]

Has this vehicle ever been flooded?

 

[Zachfinch76]

Has this vehicle ever been flooded?

No

 

[Zachfinch76]

Do these codes seem like perhaps the problem is wiring and not the HVAC Module?

 

[MrPlat]

Based on those errors, I can't tell if the problem is the HVAC module, BCM, or both.

Errors tend to cascade from module to module. One bad module can cause multiples to throw errors. Unfortunately, you can't just swap out a bunch of modules to see what's bad without buying and programming them...

 

[Zachfinch76]

Based on those errors, I can't tell if the problem is the HVAC module, BCM, or both.

Errors tend to cascade from module to module. One bad module can cause multiples to throw errors. Unfortunately, you can't just swap out a bunch of modules to see what's bad without buying and programming them...

Seems like I do not have much of a choice other than to just try things. Since taking it anywhere to be further diagnosed will cost a lot more than these parts will cost. And they still might not fix it. I think I will start with the HVAC module, I can get it used but tested to be working for like $65. Then if there is still an issue I will move on to the BCM. By the way where is the BCM and what does it look like? When I looked up the part number for the BCM (as referenced in Forscan) in my explorer (EC3T-14B476-BA BCM) my search results in what looks like the fuse box? Is the BCM the fuse box unit?

 

[peterk9]

That is what the number seems to come back to. Genuine EC3T-14B476-BA BCM Fuse Box Control Module for Ford F250 Lincoln MKS | eBay
I searched 4 different parts sites, including Ford parts and they all say the part is obsolete or the number is invalid.

It may be time to consider taking it to an independent garage that deals in automotive electronics.

Peter

 

[Zachfinch76]

Based on those errors, I can't tell if the problem is the HVAC module, BCM, or both.

Errors tend to cascade from module to module. One bad module can cause multiples to throw errors. Unfortunately, you can't just swap out a bunch of modules to see what's bad without buying and programming them...

Both for the HVAC module or the BCM what is the process to program it? Is it just backing up the Factory BUILT programming from the existing unit in the car and then writing it back to the new unit after installation?

 

[ProjectSHO89]

What did you buy and use as your OBDII interface?

Reason for asking is that all those network communications errors seem to have the MS-CAN in common and a lot of the "cheap" adapters don't handle it well. Might mean that the adapter was the reason for all those errors or, if the adapter was working correctly, that there's something trashing the comms on your MS-CAN bus.

 

[Zachfinch76]

What did you buy and use as your OBDII interface?

Reason for asking is that all those network communications errors seem to have the MS-CAN in common and a lot of the "cheap" adapters don't handle it well. Might mean that the adapter was the reason for all those errors or, if the adapter was working correctly, that there's something trashing the comms on your MS-CAN bus.

I used the recommended USB Forscan one: Amazon product ASIN B081VQVD3F. the MS-CAN bus could also be affected by a faulty BCM right?

 

[Zachfinch76]

I found this service: They do a full diagnostic, determine if and what damage exists, reman and repair, and send it back. $239. Seems better than buying a new one because this way I can know for sure if it is bad since they first run a full diagnostic on the unit. Ford BCM Repair Electronic Control Module Repair - Module Experts

 

[ProjectSHO89]

Correct adapter, good.

the MS-CAN bus could also be affected by a faulty BCM right?

The MS-CAN bus can be affected by anything connected to or it it could be a wiring fault.

There are a couple of modules that are standard equipment on a '15 XLT and a good number of "optional equipment" modules that *may* be present on the MS-CAN bus.

 

[Zachfinch76]

Update: The past 5 or 6 days have been cold here in Western Washington. Like low 60s. But today it is 86F, and everything is working, i.e. GPS, TPMS and HVAC. So this leads me to think the problem is definitely either the BCM itself or a short leading to the BCM. The other systems obviously work since they all stopped and started working together. The weather getting warm seems to have affected the issue, weird.

 

[MrPlat]

It's a long shot, but try disconnecting all of the wiring harnesses form your BCM one at a time, cleaning them out if there's corrosion or dirt, and then plugging them back in. I've had some gremlins from poor connections in my wiring harnesses.

 

[mguy13sport]

I wouldn't be surprised if water is getting behind the dash. These explorers are known for water leaks usually from clogged drains or windshield gasket leak - cargo area leaks are common too. The other thing worth checking is the battery health. I've seen bad batteries cause weird issues with these cars.

It sounds like the BCM may not be toasted since everything still works.

 

[Zachfinch76]

I need help with an easier way to get better access to the bcm so I can get it out. Crawling under the drivers side area I can barely unplug one plug much less detach all the brackets to get it out. Is there an easier way to get access with more leverage?

 

[MrPlat]

You can remove the plastic cover that's attached to the very front of the dash. There are a few screws and some clips. It'll make it much easier to get to the BCM.

 

[Zachfinch76]

You can remove the plastic cover that's attached to the very front of the dash. There are a few screws and some clips. It'll make it much easier to get to the BCM.

When I remove the cover this is what I see, so if I remove that metal bracket it will give me better access?

 

[MrPlat]

I was talking about a plastic cover that is underneath that one. It is backed by sound deadening material. It's a black plastic cover that basically keeps you from kicking your foot up under the dash and covers up the BCM.

 

[Zachfinch76]

I was talking about a plastic cover that is underneath that one. It is backed by sound deadening material. It's a black plastic cover that basically keeps you from kicking your foot up under the dash and covers up the BCM.

I can’t seem to figure out which clips or fasteners are holding the bcm onto that metal plate or how to get it off. Has anyone done it that can offer some guidance?

 

[Zachfinch76]

Regarding programming a new replacement BCM. Is it as simple as I backup the current BCM and then load that backup file onto the new one in Forscan and then restart the car?