Preliminary Checks
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 11 other vehicles, including the 2003 Mercury Sable, 2003 Mercury Marauder, 2003 Mercury Grand Marquis, 2003 Lincoln Town Car, and 2003 Lincoln LS. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Ensure following systems and components are in good condition and operating properly before diagnosing problems in fuel injection system:
- Check battery and charging system condition.
- Check all wiring harness and vacuum connections.
- Check air cleaner and ducting.
- Check secondary ignition components.
- Check fuel delivery system.
- Check fuel tank contents and fuel gauge accuracy.
- Check for dirt, water or other contamination in fuel.
- Check fuel lines and fittings for leaks.
- Check fuel delivery system for proper pressure and volume.
- Check for inoperative fuel injectors.
- Check cooling system.
- Check Inertia Fuel Shutoff (IFS) switch.
- Check for blown head gasket (liquid in cylinder).
- Check for improperly installed electronic equipment such as anti-theft system, CB radio, cellular telephone or stereo.