Generally, the most common F150 PCM failure symptoms include: inability to connect diagnostic scan tool, check engine light illumination, rough or even no start, low gas mileage, failed emissions test, engine stalling, difficult shifting, getting PCM-related error codes, misfires and backfires.
Full Answer
What does a bad PCM mean on a Ford F-150?
A faulty computer in the Ford F-150 can pose serious troubles. It means the PCM will not be able to communicate with other systems, thus can disturb different features of the vehicle simultaneously. Today, we will discuss common Ford F150 PCM failure symptoms to diagnose a PCM problem.
What does the PCM relay do on a Ford?
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is a primary system that manages the Engine Control Module (ECM) and the Transmission Control Module (TCM). It doesn’t matter if you own a Ford or a GMC; the PCM relay works the same way. It is your vehicle’s brain, and it manages everything in it.
What are the symptoms of a bad PCM relay?
Going off of the first symptom of the PCM relay failure, there is a chance that the engine will not be able to start or turn over when you insert the key, and it might get stuck in the ignition.
Where is the PCM connector on a Ford F150?
Most recent F150s have the PCM positioned at the back of the driver’s kick panel with the connector projecting through the firewall. The PCM’s shape is like a box and is made of metals.
What does the PCM relay do?
It controls all the relays and fuses of a car. The PCM power relay or ECM power relay work as a switch and transfer power to the ECM. However, if the ignition key turns off, the switches within the PCM power relay will not receive battery power. As a result, your vehicle will not operate properly.
Where is the PCM relay on a 2001 Ford f150?
The 2001 F150 has two fuse boxes. One is located inside the cab, to the bottom left of the steering wheel....2001 F150 Passenger Compartment Fuse Box.№Amp RatingDescription19—Not Used205AAudio, GEM (or CTM) Module, Powertrain Control Module (PCM),34 more rows•Aug 25, 2021
How do you remove a PCM relay?
0:502:47PCM Relay (with ChrisFix!) – 2004-2008 5.4L Ford F-150YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo the fuse box is located right back here in the passenger side foot well to get to it we just haveMoreSo the fuse box is located right back here in the passenger side foot well to get to it we just have to remove this cover comes right out.
Where is the PCM on a Ford f150?
0:222:16Ford 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.
How do I know if my Ford 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...•
Where is the PCM relay on a 99 F150?
Under the driver side dashboard passenger compartment fuse panel. The #2 5amp relay is according to the owners guide F-150/250 1999 model year is the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Cluster.
How do you test a PCM relay?
5:3613:01How To Test a Relay The Easy Way - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo now that we check the resistance of the coil on the relay. We can actually energize it by addingMoreSo now that we check the resistance of the coil on the relay. We can actually energize it by adding power and ground to the terminal eighty-five two pins 85 and 86. And see if there really clicks.
How much does it cost to replace 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.
What does PCM fuse mean?
A power-train control module, abbreviated PCM, is an automotive component, a control unit, used on motor vehicles. It is generally a combined controller consisting of the engine control unit (ECU) and the transmission control unit (TCU).
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 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 is Ford PCM module?
November 7, 2020. The powertrain control module, aka PCM, is your vehicle's brain. It manages the engine, transmission and other systems based on information it receives from various sensors around the vehicle.
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.
1. Check Engine Light Turns On
The Check Engine symbol is your vehicle’s catch-all sign. It can come on for just about anything, especially for systems not covered by one of the other vehicle’s warning lights. Therefore, you do not have to fret when it comes on.
3. Low Gas Mileage
The PCM collaborates with the ECM and TCM to manage your fuel-to-air ratio and determines the best time to shift gears. If any of the systems aren’t working correctly, the gas mileage will deteriorate.
4. Emissions Test Failure
As discussed earlier, the PCM and ECM manage Ford’s fuel-to-air ratio. Suppose the mixture is extremely rich (excessive fuel compared to air). In that case, the gasoline/diesel will not completely combust and emit considerably extra elements and carbon monoxide than a properly-working engine.
6. Irregular or Random Shifting
One of the gravest Ford F150 PCM failure symptoms is improper shifting. It generally occurs due to a faulty sensor or water damage of circuits in your F-150’s PCM or TCM.
7. Receiving a PCM-Related Error Code
One of the obvious Ford F150 PCM failure symptoms is the PCM error code you receive. You can know the code through a reader device. If it is the first symptom of a problem, compliments! You have identified the issue before it could bring serious troubles.
PCM Replacement Cost
Knowing the PCM is such a crucial system, you would expect it to be expensive. Yes, it can be costly for some vehicles because certain PCMs are more complex than others.
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 is PCM in a Ford F150?
In a vehicle’s mechanism, the powertrain control module (PCM) acts as the central computer system . Collect and monitor all data from a range of sensors ECM engine control unit and TCM transmission control unit, and if you are looking for Ford F150 Pcm Failure symptoms then you need to be alert and find the problem as soon as you can before your vehicle stops on road anytime while driving.
Why is my PCM at fault?
While that function is directly controlled by the ECM, your PCM may also be at fault, since the ECM requires feedback from the PCM to adjust timing. Shifting Problem.
What is the number one indication of a PCM failure?
Inability to connect a scan tool or diagnostic device to the PCM is the number one indication of a PCM failure. We suggest checking that the PCM relay and diode in the under-hood fuse panel are in working order before removing the PCM.
What is P06 code?
Most codes beginning in “P06” involve a PCM failure , and there are some others as well. Cars-care: Ford Dashboard Symbols and Meanings. Increased Emissions. As the PCM governs the fuel mixture, it is also in charge of the emission of exhaust.
What does it mean when a car has a bad computer?
A bad computer in a car is a huge deal. Problems with this device mean that it can’t transmit messages inside the car to other systems. It could mean throwing out your timing and other critical structures.
Can a PCM be damaged by water?
Even one or two drops will make it irreparable to the PCM. If there is water damage, the car repair shops won’t even bother to repair the PCM.
What happens if a PCM relay fails?
If the PCM relay fails, then the vehicle will have all sorts of problems and be unable to run, or have dangerous problems with the driver and passengers. Usually, the driver will notice some symptoms that will clue them into issues with the PCM relay – let’s check it out.
How to tell if a PCM relay is bad?
One of the first signs and one of the more obvious symptoms of an issue within the PCM power relay system is no production of power when the key is inserted into the ignition, and the relay fails to provide power to the entire vehicle. The failed PCM relay will turn off the dashboard lights and other key safety warning lights that are normally illuminated when you turn the key in the ignition. Furthermore, and more importantly, the vehicle will usually be unable to start and it might be impossible to turn the key.
What is a PCM relay?
The PCM relay, also known as the powertrain control module relay, comes with a power relay that provides battery voltage to the right PCM circuits. This type of contact relay is activated using a signal wire or the ignition switch. This relay applies to all vehicles that use the OBD-II system, ...
Why is my PCM relay blown?
The first cause is that there is a damaged or defective PCM power relay. The second cause is that there is a blown fuse or fusible link. There are certain signs that your car has a blown fuse – this can help you diagnose and pinpoint the cause of the PCM relay. Usually, a blown fuse just causes a minor electrical problem, ...
What is the function of the ECM?
the ECM monitors and changes the operation and power distribution to both the fuel and injection systems, engine timing, ...
What is the electronic control module?
The electronic control module, which we know is the computer responsible for controlling all of the electronic components within the vehicle, controls almost all electronic functions, like emissions, ignitions, and fuel. It is a very important part, if not the most important piece, of the entire management system.
Why does my computer battery drain?
Dead Battery or Battery Draining. Lastly, a failed PCM relay can cause the battery to drain over time due to the switch constantly being turned on , or a dead battery. If they relay short circuits, it can drain the computer battery, even when the vehicle is turned off.
How to fix a PCM relay?
The best way to fix this code related to the PCM relay’s open circuit is to troubleshoot the code P06805. You can do this by recording the fault codes to diagnose the issue later on. Then, locate the PCM power relay and determine which wire leads to what part of the terminal and the function of each wire. If you do not do this step, it can lead to a misdiagnosis and short-circuiting.
Why is my PCM relay not working?
The second cause is that there is a damaged fuse or fusible link. There are certain signs that your car has a broken fuse – this can help you diagnose and pinpoint the cause of the PCM relay.
What is an engine control unit?
The engine control unit, also known as the engine control module, is a type of electronic control unit that controls actuators within the internal combustion engine. The engine control unit is the brain of an engine and handles various performance and driveability functions. If the ECM fails, the PCM relay will not work correctly.
What is a PCM relay?
The PCM relay, also known as the powertrain control module relay , comes with a power relay that provides battery voltage to the right PCM circuits. This type of contact relay is activated using a signal wire or the ignition switch. This relay applies to all vehicles that use the OBD-II system, especially those vehicles that are newer than 1996 to the present.
What is PCM in cars?
The PCM is a powerful computer that is in charge of managing or monitoring the engine’s ignition system. It also has to monitor the fuel injection, emission systems, positioning of the rotating assembly, transmission, and exhaust system. In most cars, it has to monitor any other functions related to the engine and transmission systems.
What happens if a PCM relay fails?
If the PCM relay fails, the vehicle will have all sorts of problems and cannot run or have dangerous problems with the driver and passengers. Usually, the driver will notice some symptoms that will clue them into issues with the PCM relay – let’s check it out.
What is the powertrain control module?
Also, in some vehicles, the powertrain control module might have to operate the traction control system and the anti-lock brake system. The anti-lock brake system is designed to prevent your car from skidding.