Last updated on October 9th, 2023 at 05:38 pm
Ford F-150 has been the best-selling vehicle in America for 21 consecutive years. Its new model features the best handling interiors, comfortable, quietest, and most supportive seats. The Ford F-150 model car uses a unique electric throttle control. Its computer system works interchangeably with the powertrain module to improve performance and efficiency.
What is the ECM on a Ford F-150?
This computer, also known as the Power train Control Module acts as the brain of the 2004 Ford F-150 PCM. It controls various emission controls, charging systems, and transmission, thus communicating with all control modules.
The 2004 Ford F-150 PCM failure symptoms are several. If your 2004 Ford has an issue, the PCM will communicate the problem and transmit it on your dashboard as error codes. These codes will help the mechanic identify the 2004 Ford F-150 ECM problems and diagnose them.
So what are the 2004 Ford F-150 PCM problems?
How Do I Know if my Ford ECM is bad?
It is customary for every car to signal failure symptoms before your vehicle starts having problems. It would be best to take the Ford F-150 PCM failure symptoms seriously before the vehicle gets into big trouble.
The main 2004 Ford F-150 PCM Failure symptoms include:
1. The engine may stall while you are driving
An engine with a bad ECM will experience a misfire. It will come frequently and go depending on how bad the PCM is. The machine will stall while driving, and you may not manage to ignite it again. You will need to turn off the ignition, then ignite it again. It is a symptom that you need a 2004 Ford F-150 PCM replacement.
2. The engine light flashing on the dashboard
The check engine light will keep flashing on the dashboard when the ECM fails to do a self-diagnostic cycle. The error code showing will help the mechanic know the exact 2004 Ford F-150 PCM location issue. Note that the engine light may turn off and on for many reasons. Always check the engine and consult an expert.
3. Experiencing poor engine efficiency and performance
The Engine Control Unit (ECU) controls the fuel to air ratio and the engine timing. When it experiences an issue, it may damage your F 150 fuel to air ratio. It will cause poor performance and efficiency. It results in checking engine lights go on, misfire, and ignition problems.
4. Experiencing a hard start or not starting
When the engine fails to start, it signifies that your PCM or ECM has gone wrong. It will fail the electronic control modules and may cause a clogged fuel filter, ignition problems, fault crank/camshaft sensors, and a bad mass airflow sensor.
These 2004 Ford F-150 PCM problems are often displayed on the dashboard by diagnostic trouble codes including p0351, p0352, p0353, p0354, p0355, p0356, p0357, p0358. It is wise to stop using your vehicle and diagnose if the problem persists in avoiding significant damage.
Bad PCM Symptoms Before Completely Failing Down
Some bad PCM symptoms before completely failing down include:
1. Dashboard Warning Lights
One alarming PCM symptom is more than one warning light showing on the dashboard. Stop the car immediately and look for an electrical system technician specializing in PCM powertrain control modules.
2. Shifting Problem
Random shifting indicates that your PCM or TCM has an issue. However, it may also be a problem with the transmission valve body or low transmission fluid. Check frequently the level of transmission fluid to avoid higher replacement costs.
3. Cannot Connect OBD2 Scan Tool
Another bad PCM symptom is when you cannot connect an OBD2 scan device or diagnostic tool to PCM. Before uninstalling the PCM, PCM relays and diodes in the under-hood fuse panel should be correctly placed.
If one of the components fails, the PCM may not turn on, and the problem might be misdiagnosed. The PCM relays and diodes must be removed first when replacing the PCM. Its position may differ and is only identified in the owner’s manual.
What Are ECM Fault Codes?
ECM or DTC (diagnostic trouble codes) are part of the OBD II system of your vehicle. The principles detect errors and give information on any faulty systems, where it is located, and the leading cause of the problem.
Most bad PCM-related error codes beginning with “P06” indicate PCM failure. Some of these codes include the U0100 code, the P0603 code, the P0113 code, and the P0606.
What Can Cause ECM Failure?
The leading cause of ECM Failure is when the 2004 Ford F-150 has increased moisture and frequently corrosion on the wiring harness. It causes the ECM to experience electric surge or shorts and mileage failure, resulting in incorrect codes and readings. It’s most common for moisture to go via corroded ECM seals in old vehicles.
Can a bad ECM drain the battery?
Yes. It will drain the battery and result in a dead battery. When the relay experience shorts, it leaves power in the computer even if the car is off. It experiences a parasitic draining of the storm, resulting in a dead battery.
How much does it cost to replace PCM?
The average PCM replacement cost is between $800 to $1,500, depending on the model of your car. Also, the labor costs vary from one technician to another, between $75 to $100. Note that always allow your vehicle to be diagnosed only by a PCM specialist. Some of the 2004 Ford F-150 control modules are very sensitive and may cause more damage to the car if not taken care of well.
Does PCM need Reprogramming?
PCM may require Reprogramming due to various reasons. The original factory setting may affect the operation of OBD II or sensors. So you will need programming to resolve these issues. The main reasons to reprogramme the PCM include:
- To modify ABS operation, stability control systems
- To change the steering feel
- To change the ride characteristics with electronic ride control
- To modify emission operation functions
- To change the shift characteristics of an automatic transmission
When you replace PCM, BCM, and TCM on your car, you will need Reprogramming to calibrate the changed module to the original one unless it was pre-flashed by the module supplier or the OEM. Also, to initialize it to work well.
Reprogramming is only done after installing an aftermarket performance cam, manifold, fuel induction system, and more giant heads.
If replacing a PROM chip, always put on an anti-static wrist ground strap to avoid damaging or breaking the chip’s memory.
Conclusion
The main problem when you diagnose the ECM is that you’ll focus on giving you all the diagnostic data required to repair your engine or sensors. If the ECU gets bad, it will be challenging to know or detect the problems. Usually, F-150 does self-diagnostic checks. It would be wise to check any error code related to PCM/ECM. The most common is a fault processor showing error code P0606.
If you experience ECM/ECU/PCM failure symptoms, don’t worry. We are here to help! Our replacement engine control modules are pre-programmed “plug and play” for all makes and models. Contact our PCM technician expert to help you analyze the problem, PCM repair, and replacement, and answer all your questions!
FAQs
How do you diagnose a bad PCM Ford?
To diagnose a lousy PCM Ford, check the sensors and wires that connect to the PCM. If you see PCM error codes, It will assist you to know which wires or sensors have faulty. Refine your check by performing a visual inspection using a multimeter. Common faults include checking the engine light is “ON,” hard-start, sudden loss of gas mileage, stalls engine, experience random shifting, or failed emissions test.
How do you reset the PCM on a 2004 Ford F-150?
To reset the PCM on a 2004 Ford F-150, loosen the lock nut on the negative battery connector with a socket and a ratchet. Turn the connector “OFF.” Then wait for about 20 minutes for the PCM to bleed off the stored electricity used for backup power. Immediately the energy drains, the PCM will reset instantly.
What are the common problems with the 2004 Ford F-150?
The common problems with the 2004 Ford F-150 include your engine experience idling, experience noise from a clutch kit, faulty ignition coil, leaking exhaust, and funny noise from the rear end when turning on your vehicle.
Where is the PCM relay on a 2004 Ford F-150?
The PCM relay on a 2004 Ford F-150 is located at the back passenger seat, on the side foot. You have to remove the cover and open the lid at the side foot to get it. Then check the set nicely and remove it.
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