Section 68 (Engine Controls - Basic Diagnostic Procedures - Except Diesel): Introduction
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 19 other vehicles, including the 2002 Mercury Mountaineer, 2002 Lincoln Navigator, 2002 Lincoln Blackwood, 2002 Ford Windstar, and 2002 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 F250-550 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 poor electrical connections, damaged/misrouted vacuum hoses or mechanical breakdowns. Before condemning the computerized system, perform each inspection and test listed in this article.