Section 10 (Engine Controls - Basic Diagnostic Procedures - Except Diesel): Introduction
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 15 other vehicles, including the 2000 Mercury Villager, 2000 Mercury Mountaineer, 2000 Lincoln Navigator, 2000 Ford Windstar, and 2000 Ford Ranger. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE:
References to Econoline include Cutaway and RV Cutaway. References to Pickup include Cab & Chassis.
The following diagnostic steps will help prevent overlooking a simple problem. This is also where to begin diagnosis for a no-start condition.
The first step in diagnosing any driveability problem is verifying the symptom(s) with a test drive under the conditions the problem reportedly occurred.
Before entering self-diagnostics, perform a careful and complete visual inspection. Most engine control problems result from mechanical breakdowns, poor electrical connections or damaged/misrouted vacuum hoses. Before condemning the computerized system, perform each test listed in this article.