Service Engine Light

[dacashboy]

Okay heres my problem. In the mornings when I go to start it my 97 explorer starts right up but after that it idles very rough and almost shuts off on my. This only does it in the mornings or when i havnt drove it for awhile. Now after about a week of this the service engine popped up and I went to ford to see what the problem is and they want 70 dollars just to check it out. I use to own a dodge neon and all i had to do was cycle the key a couple of times to get the codes. Is there a similar way to get the codes from this ford? Also what could this problem be with the idle?

Thanks for any help!
Chris

 

[Opera House]

Find an Autozone

or some other auto parts store that will read it for free. I've used them four times so far and always a pleasant experience. Be sure you write down the code numbers and don't take any of their advice. You can get a code reader now for OBD-II fro about $160. There is no other way.

 

[dacashboy]

Which auto stores do you suggest?

 

[steve6534]

If there is an Autozone near you they do it for free.

Steve

 

[dacashboy]

Okay I went there and they did it for free. It gave me a code saying Something is running to lean. I forgot really what it said word for word but the code number was PO171. He told me it was my O2 sensors. He also said to try using this injector cleaner to clean out my system. I thought I would come here first before thinkin of going to buy a O2 sensor

 

[Majisto]

Sounds like a logical problem to me, but I never knew O2s threw a CEL. Have you checked your idle air control valve out recently? This little spawn of satan can cause rough and erratic idles too. All you usually need to do is clean it out with some intake cleaner and it's alright (It's located right by the throttle body. It's cylinder shaped with two bolts holding it on)

 

[dacashboy]

No i havnt checked it out. Truthfully I just recently bought this truck and really havnt had the time to look over the engine to know where everything is. Could you tell me where and how to take it out and clean it. It would be very appreciated. Thanks alot. What do i clean it with?

 

[Majisto]

Originally posted by dacashboy
No i havnt checked it out. Truthfully I just recently bought this truck and really havnt had the time to look over the engine to know where everything is. Could you tell me where and how to take it out and clean it. It would be very appreciated. Thanks alot. What do i clean it with?

Well, let's see I don't really remember how I removed it now...all you are looking for is a round cylinder shaped object with two bolts holding it on and a few wires coming out of it. It's located by the throttle body which you can easily locate by following the black air hose to the end. I just sprayed intake cleaner right through it. Do a search for IAC. You will find A LOT of info on it

 

[dacashboy]

Did doing that solve your problem? It sounds very simple but do I have to disassembly the cylinder thing? Or just spray the cleaner in it? Thanks for you input!

Chris

 

[TPLYNCH]

Chris, do you have the SOHC V6? Does it only do this when the engine is cold? Do you have the service record, and if it is the SOHC engine, were the 00M12 and 01M01 programs for the Intake Manifold O-rings and the cam chain tensioners performed??

 

[dacashboy]

Yes i have the SOHC v6 and yes only when it was cold or first started. I think i coul dbe the manifold 0-rings but im not sure. I dont know how to look it up and see if it got serviced. I know im over the warrenty to get it done because i have 108,000 miles and i really dont want to spend 70$ at ford for them to tell me something that I allready may know. Its either to o2 sensor or coul dbe the 0-ring. but how coul di tell if its leaking? Thanks for your replys!

Chris

 

[TPLYNCH]

I think one way to check is to release propane gas (from one of the little torch bottles) in the area. If the rings are leaking, you will hear change in engine performance. I would search for 00M12 and 01M01 and read all the posts. There is also a thread with detailed instructions on how to replace the o-rings yourself (with pictures). Several members have done it themselves. The parts cost about as much as the Diagnostic Fee!

You can call Ford Dealer and ask for service history, or even register at the Ford Owners site. W/ your VIN, I believe you can get that info online.

I'm 90% sure the o-rings are your problem.

Good luck!

 

[dacashboy]

Okay, I will do that. Also this may be a silly question but if it is the o-rings would that effect my gas mileage? Ive been gettin terrible gas mileage recently and i dont know if thats the case? Thanks.

 

[TPLYNCH]

Tough to say. Lots a things cause bad MPG. Don't think the rings would cause any drastic change. I'd stick to getting the idle problem fixed first, then go after MPG if it's still crappy.