This is the most common problem with the Ford F150 PCM and is often indicated by one or more of the following diagnostic trouble codes: P0351, P0352, P0353, P0354, P0355, P0356. The engine computer is often referred to as the ECM (Engine Control Module), ECU (Engine Control Unit), or simply as the computer.
Full Answer
What does the PCM stand for on a Ford f150?
PCM – Powertrain Control Module The PCM (Powertrain Control Module) is the main computer in the automobile that controls all its functions. By placing control of both the transmission and engine into one unit, the PCM can better coordinate their functions for better power delivery and fuel economy.
How much is a PCM?
The PCM is a computer, and computers aren't cheap to replace. That's why the average PCM replacement cost is anywhere between $800 and $1,500, depending on the car model and labor costs. Even worse, this is almost all in the cost of the PCM itself. Labor typically only runs between $75 and $100.
How much is a new computer for a Ford f150?
The best part is, our Ford F-150 Engine Computer products start from as little as $103.99.
How do I reset my Ford PCM?
0:515:12How To Clear Your PCM'S Memory On Fords After Repairs - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipPut one on that side you can keep the positive on the terminal there. And then we're gonna put theMorePut one on that side you can keep the positive on the terminal there. And then we're gonna put the other one on here on the actual terminal that goes to the body and the engine a lot stuff.
How do I know if my PCM is bad?
What Are the Symptoms of a Faulty PCM?Your “check engine” light is on.Other warning lights may be on, including traction control and ABS.You lose fuel economy for no apparent reason.Your car stutters when starting, requires multiple attempts, or won't start at all.Stuttering or stalling during idling.More items...•
Should I replace my PCM?
Signs Your ECM or PCM Might Need Replacing Engine Performance Issues – You'll notice a reduction in fuel efficiency, power, and acceleration. Car Not Starting – Your vehicle does not start or is difficult to start. The engine may still crank but won't be able to start without vital inputs from the computer.
What is the powertrain on Ford f150?
Engine, Transmission, and Performance The 2023 F-150 is available with several engines—a 290-hp 3.3-liter V-6; a 400-hp 5.0-liter V-8; a 325-hp twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6; a 400-hp twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6; and a 250-hp 3.0-liter diesel V-6.
Where is the PCM located on a 2004 Ford f150?
0:272:16Ford F-150 PCM/Computer Replacement - 2004 to 2008YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou'll find the engine computer under the hood mounted to the passenger side of the firewall. It'll.MoreYou'll find the engine computer under the hood mounted to the passenger side of the firewall. It'll. Be very easy to identify since it has three harnesses attached to it.
Is Ford still building 2021 F-150?
Ford prepares to start building 2021 F-150 as buyers place orders, sight unseen. Ford Motor Co. is now in its final days of building the 2020 Ford F-150, as the second of two factories that makes the bestselling pickups in North America prepares to shut down for the transition to the all-new 2021 version of the truck.
How do you reset the computer on a Ford f150?
0:002:55How to Clear the PCM Memory on a Ford F150 - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipHello Gemma should reset the adaptive memory on a Ford f-150 gonna go to the battery. And use herMoreHello Gemma should reset the adaptive memory on a Ford f-150 gonna go to the battery. And use her eight millimeter loosen the negative take it off and disconnect the negative battery cable.
What causes powertrain control module failure?
Water is the primary element to avoid as exposure to it can render the PCM irreparable. Other environmental factors that could lead to PCM failure include thermal stress due to excessive heat and excessive vibration that causes sensitive parts to fail.
Does disconnecting battery reset ECU?
A. It depends on the car's age and type of ECU used. On some older cars, disconnecting the battery will reset the system but in most new cars it does nothing, except potentially reset the clock and radio station presets.
PCM in Car: Everything you need to know
Decades ago, it was hard to detect the location of every vehicle fault because many automotive systems were manual. Now it has become easier to track malfunctions with the computerization of most vehicle systems.
Top 9 Most Common F150 PCM Failure Symptoms
A powertrain control module can work abnormally because of several factors. I will discuss some of those factors later. For now, see some of the usual F150 computer problem signs below.
What Triggers the PCM Failure Symptoms?
The powertrain control module can get damaged by corrosion, vibrations, short-circuiting, overheating/thermal stress, and voltage overload. These are factors that affect other vehicle electronics. Generally, the common reasons are environmental factors and voltage overloads. Expect a failure symptom to manifest in the case of any of those triggers.
How to Fix a PCM-related Issue
The first step in fixing a powertrain control module-related problem is to test it. This lets you ascertain that the PCM truly needs attention and not another unit or system. See if it needs a reset before opting for plan B, carrying out a swap.
PCM Replacement & Reprogramming Cost
The total cost of replacing a Ford F150’s powertrain control module is between $700 and $1,500. This depends on the vehicle model and labor charges. Some PCMs are more complex than others, and luxury F150 trucks would be more expensive than regular ones. A seasoned expert would charge higher than a professional with lesser experience.
Final Thoughts
I hope you found the answers to many of your bugging questions about Ford F150 PCM failure symptoms. Now you know what to do when you notice any of the top 9 most common PCM problems mentioned. You have also realized just how important the powertrain control module is.
What to Do If You Witness Ford F150 PCM Failure Symptoms?
If you’re facing one of these Ford F150 PCM failure symptoms, don’t fuss. The issue might not relate to PCM at all. It could be owing to a faulty sensor or a shorted wire.
What causes PCM to go bad?
Voltage overload, metal corrosion, and overheating are the main factors of PCM failure.
What to consider when buying a Ford PCM?
When purchasing a new PCM, it’s easy to get confused between different models. Many of them look alike, and similar PCMs from the same manufacturer sometimes look identical, right down to the mounting hardware. This makes it easy to install the same PCM on several different vehicles.
What is the PCM in a car?
One of your car’s most important computers is the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). This small computer works in conjunction with your car’s Engine Control Module (ECM) and Transmission Control Module (TCM), to oversee your entire powertrain.
How Do I Know My PCM Needs Replacement?
Your PCM controls multiple car systems. As a result, you may see symptoms in a variety of your vehicle’s systems. Here are a few common symptoms of a failed PCM.
Why is firmware important for PCMs?
The firmware is particularly important for PCMs, since PCMs are programmed to work with a specific make, model, and model year of car. This is even true if there are different versions of the same car.
How many PCMs does Solo carry?
If at the end of the day it becomes necessary to replace your PCM, buy from a source you can trust. Solo PCMs carries almost 150 PCMs for Ford vehicles. No matter what your make, model, or model year, we’ve got the best PCM for your specific vehicle.
What is the most important tool for diagnosing any automotive electronics?
The most important tool for diagnosing any automotive electronics is an on-board diagnostic (OBD) tool. If you don’t already own one, be warned that they’re on the pricey side. It’s a good idea to ask around and see if you can borrow one, or see if a local job will read your codes for free.
Can you use different PCM firmware on the same car?
This is even true if there are different versions of the same car. For example, if your car comes with a 3-liter and a 3.5-liter motor , both versions will require different PCM firmware. And while it’s true that PCMs can sometimes be flashed with new firmware, it’s almost always safer and easier to simply replace your PCM.
What is the ECM on a 2020 F150?
May 29, 2020 by Jason. Your Ford F150’s ECM (Engine Control Module) is its brain. Just like a human’s brain, your F150 can’t function without it. It is sometimes referred to as the ECU or PCM. It’s all the same thing.
What is ECM in a car?
Almost all of the essential functions of the vehicle are controlled by the ECU/ECM. The ECM takes all of the data from the various sensors, and uses it to operate the engine in a way that is significantly more efficient than traditionally controlled engines. It uses the data from the oxygen sensors, camshaft sensor (s), mass airflow sensor, ...
What happens if my F150 fails self diagnostic?
Failed Self Diagnostic Cycle. When you start your F150, the ECM will do a self diagnostic cycle. If it fails the cycle, you’ll get a check engine light. This trouble code will tell you what part of the diagnostic that it failed, and you’ll have a pretty good idea of the appropriate action to take to fix it.
What happens if an ECM goes bad?
So, when it goes bad, it can knock your F150’s air fuel ratio off. This could lead to poor fuel economy, the previously mentioned rough running engine, backfiring, a flashing check engine light, and an engine that has no giddy-up and go.
What does ECM do?
The ECM controls and directs your entire drivetrain (unless there is a serrate transmission controller). When an ECM starts to go bad, it can cause all sorts of problems.
Why use ECM?
Other than the many performance advantages of an ECM over mechanically controlled engines , it also provides data that can help you diagnose what is wrong with the engine when there is a problem. While modern engines are more complicated than older engines, this data more than evens out the advantage of the older engine.
Can an ECM stall?
An engine with a bad ECM will often run rough and misfire. The misfire can come or go depending on what is going on with the ECM. It may stall, and not be able to start again, until you turn the ignition all the way off and back on again.