Edit: Sorry for the double-post, posted in the wrong forum by accident at first.
Hey guys - so my car finally decided not to start again, ever, regardless of priming the fuel pump or jump starting or anything else, so I had it towed to a nearby shop thinking it was something easy for them to fix.
I guess they scanned it an got an error code that said that the "powertrain control modules may need to be replaced".
This is on a 2001 GT with a Vortech SQ kit - it has a custom chip I can't remember diablo or autologic or something.
I'm not sure what has happened here - it started with my old battery dying at 95k miles, replaced with a new one, then replaced with another (thought aaa might have given me a bad one with the replacement) - all over the last couple months. Problems started with the first battery dying.
Anyway, the shop I had it taken to is a local mechanic, but they don't know really what to do with it - has anyone had this happen before? My problem is it's a long tow to a tuner shop, and I can't figure out even what to do to get it running. I don't know if worst case I can just call Vortech to get one of their standard chip replacements in the meantime. Has anyone had this kind of error code? I'm stuck.
It definitely sounds like a "PCM / Powertrain Control Module / Body Control Computer / CCRM / Constant Control Relay Module / Multi-function Relay Module / Multi-function Relay Box" to me with those symptoms. It is essentially a sealed module that contains a lot of individual relays for cooling system, charging system, transmission solenoids, etc.
I just recently had my PCM replaced. It's located in the passenger side fender well.
It was $256.72 directly from Ford. COramprat might still have a used one, PM him and ask about details.
If you're replacing it, I think all you need is a 8mm socket, 10mm socket, jack, jack stand, and something to get the tire off with. This is what I was told, a sketchy shop did mine for me since I don't have my tools with me.
Please let us know what you find out, and what you end up doing. Good luck and take care!
Edit: Sorry for the double-post, posted in the wrong forum by accident at first.
Hey guys - so my car finally decided not to start again, ever, regardless of priming the fuel pump or jump starting or anything else, so I had it towed to a nearby shop thinking it was something easy for them to fix.
I guess they scanned it an got an error code that said that the "powertrain control modules may need to be replaced".
This is on a 2001 GT with a Vortech SQ kit - it has a custom chip I can't remember diablo or autologic or something.
I'm not sure what has happened here - it started with my old battery dying at 95k miles, replaced with a new one, then replaced with another (thought aaa might have given me a bad one with the replacement) - all over the last couple months. Problems started with the first battery dying.
Anyway, the shop I had it taken to is a local mechanic, but they don't know really what to do with it - has anyone had this happen before? My problem is it's a long tow to a tuner shop, and I can't figure out even what to do to get it running. I don't know if worst case I can just call Vortech to get one of their standard chip replacements in the meantime. Has anyone had this kind of error code? I'm stuck.
where are you located ? and if the computer is bad , make sure you pull the chip out , and dealer should be able to get you the computer , but they will need to flash the car once the computer is installed with the stock tune , and then you will have to re-install the chip after you scrap the contacts back off the new computer
I'm in San Francisco - I know of a couple of tuners, but each outside of the city.
So if I replace the PCM with a replacement OEM unit, do I need to take it to the dealer for them to set up the PCM with the stock settings, and then plug the custom tuned chip in on top of that?
Or can I reinstall a new PCM from where the car is and then plug the chip back into the new one?
Also just out of curiousity, is it possible that there is something wrong my custom chip and if so is it even possible to drive the car a short distance on a stock pcm at low rpm to get a new tune (with the 42 lb injectors that are on there now)?
Sorry of that's a stupid question - thanks again for the help
I'm in San Francisco - I know of a couple of tuners, but each outside of the city.
So if I replace the PCM with a replacement OEM unit, do I need to take it to the dealer for them to set up the PCM with the stock settings, and then plug the custom tuned chip in on top of that?
Or can I reinstall a new PCM from where the car is and then plug the chip back into the new one?
Also just out of curiousity, is it possible that there is something wrong my custom chip and if so is it even possible to drive the car a short distance on a stock pcm at low rpm to get a new tune (with the 42 lb injectors that are on there now)?
Sorry of that's a stupid question - thanks again for the help
I know nothing about after-market chips, so I can't help you there... try checking with the manufacture of the chip. Please let us know what you find out.