Ford's Fusion/Escape 3.0L Misfire Diag & Repair! What Killed The PCM? P0300-P0306

Ford has an issue with plugs, coils, and PCM's on the mid to late 2000's 3.0L's. In this video we show you what the issue is and how to fix it. Enjoy!

[@patrickgrady8866]

I was an ASE Certified Master Technician with training and certificates from Ford Motor Company in EEC, SBDS, and electrical systems for twenty years. I want to pay you compliments on your highly intelligent explanation on this particular processor, ignition coils, and spark plug operation. I was waiting for you to explain primary coil winding collapse to secondary high voltage winding, and you did. I would imagine the layperson was like, "Huh?" Again, my compliments to you and your knowledge.

[@fredbach6039]

I agree with what you say, but people who don't know how a coil produces high voltage shouldn't be working on cars. That is one of the most fundamental pieces of knowledge.

[@autorepairbymike1356]

@@fredbach6039 maybe proper training instead of saying they shouldn't work on cars.

[@bgregg55]

This is absolutely one of the best auto repair channels on YT. I'm slowly working my way through all of your videos.

[@GoTechTraining]

Wow Bgregg55, that's very nice to say. Thank you very much! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@grenaud5598]

Finally a guys who knows how to use common sense diagnostic "flow" methods...... nicely done !!!! GR

[@yanlg7737]

Probably one of the best diagnostic and repair video I've ever found on KZbin! Great job!

[@monkeywrench2800]

Pure simplicity and absolute logic always show the way, far past a simple OBD code. Nice work!

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Monkey Wrench, thanks for watching! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@mrkttrdr2919]

Always enjoy ur thorough common sense explanation of a complicated diag and repair, ur the best and thanks for posting

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Mark, thanks! You're the best for watching and support our channel. Thanks! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@SAAutoRepair]

Ahhh, it's like I always say, "The better you maintain a vehicle, the less you repair it". Great job as always Mike. Thanks for your time

[@GoTechTraining]

That's so very true! Maintenance is cheap compared to repairs. Pay me now, or pay me MORE later! :) Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@GoTechTraining]

It's not cheap Al, I would call a shop and ask for a quote on this. Everyone labor rate is different. Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@patrickgrady8866]

I was an ASE Certified Master Technician with training and certificates from Ford Motor Company in EEC, SBDS, and electrical systems for twenty years. I want to pay you compliments on your highly intelligent explanation on this particular processor, ignition coils, and spark plug operation. I was waiting for you to explain primary coil winding collapse to secondary high voltage winding, and you did. I would imagine the layperson was like, "Huh?" Again, my compliments to you and your knowledge.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Patrick, thanks for watching! I really appreciate you taking the time to comment! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@emenem6131]

Ran across the video while surfing the channels. Great job communicating the process.

[@GoTechTraining]

Eme nem, so you're telling me you found us on your travel into the rabbit hole? :) Thanks for watching and commenting! If you have any questions...don't hesitate to reach out! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@blackmanops3749]

Thank You. I'm impressed both by the depth of knowledge and the very very well put together presentation.

[@GoTechTraining]

Thank you very much BlackManOps! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@simbanugz2906]

I know this is a old Video but i wanted to say ty. I own a 12 mustang 3.7. I was stumped New coils, plugs. Kept melting. I Watched your video Purchased a Noid light. It was PCM !!! My Mustang is more of a weekend / pick my 7 year old from school Car. My Daughter Hates Riding in our other Car the MiniVan. I Ordered 6 motorcraft DG520/ Sp520 plugs. Pcm be here Saturday. So excited. My lesson was changing my coils with cheap Amazon coils that shorted out, Causing it to back feed PCM. I decided to have CircuitBoardMedics fix it..

[@GoTechTraining]

Hello, Glad you found the cause or your issue. It sucks your PCM is damaged, but at least you know you will be fixing it correctly! Thanks for reaching out and sharing your story! ~Ryan

[@DouglasJFresh]

This guy is a Master Mechanic with a capital M - no doubt! Thanks for a the information.. I learned so much from your video

[@GoTechTraining]

Thanks Douglas! Glad the video was able to help :) Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@TheAutoTech]

A good example of why you always check tsbs! More importantly you still tested the circuit. good diag!

[@GoTechTraining]

Exactly! Test don't guess :) Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@brianwhite4400]

Bro u probably just save my 2004 dodge intrepid a trip to the junkyard. I had code's p0300 & p0304 your way of explaining how the coil works and what the wrong gap of a spark plug can do just saved the intrepid thank you I am a subscriber now

[@ktcgarage8572]

Just found you, great presentation style, now I have to go back and watch all your videos Keep up the good work, you’re as good as these guys with one million subscribers Looking forward to learning from u I’m a new hobby mechanic with a 01 trooper

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Kevin, thanks for watching! I really appreciate the kind words. Maybe someday i'll see a million haha! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@wyattoneable]

I don't want to give it away but that was a great lesson! I loved the visual on the computer as well.

[@GoTechTraining]

Thanks Wyatt!! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@Usmanthemecano]

I see your comments on every good channel so I decided I'm going to subscribe to your channel lol

[@GRUSSNewton]

Fantastic presentation from Start to finish - well done! Clear steps and great info 👍

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Gruss, thanks! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@mitchellp6966]

You're a great teacher Mike. Look forward to more videos.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Mitchell, thanks! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@DJ_Felix_Flex]

Wow!!!! Mike you are Amazing. Clear, Concise diagnostics, love the troubleshooting method. Wish you had a shop here near me, Thank You and looking foward to more videos.

[@myronwessinger923]

Great video...sure it’s a lot of technical stuff....however now I know what the problem is . Pulled a coil out of a 2008 Mercury Sable, looked just like the melted coil you showed. Replaced the coil and all plugs...got OEM plugs. Yes, the car had the original plugs after 85, 000 miles (not really impressed with iridium) now after watching this video I realize that this may be deeper than a simple plug and coil replacement. I will probably contact the Ford dealer to find out if there was any recall on this problem. ....which I doubt. Replacing all plugs on this series engine is a PITA....thanks for the information.....now I know.

[@stuzman52]

Great diagnostics and repair Mike! Very detailed as always! 😀👍

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Terry thanks! :) Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@nicknicu1787]

Great job Mike,thanks for taking the time to make the video! 👍

[@GoTechTraining]

Thanks for taking the time to watch Nick! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@allendabold5611]

this is absolutely the best explanation I've ever heard someone give . thank you very much I have a young friend that is starting a teaching career in the automotive business and I gave him your KZbin page told him to watch because he could learn a lot from you . do you have a shop? And where are you located ?

[@volvo09]

Love all the detail you show! Always good to think deeper into WHY things happen to apply it down the road in other systems. Burning up expensive parts isn't good!

[@GoTechTraining]

Thanks Volvo09! Always ask why, we don't learn otherwise! :) Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@paulmiranda4707]

Great video and good explanation of secondary ignition. Keep up the good work Mike.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Paul, thanks man!!!! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@enriquemartinez7990]

Thank you Mike I look forward for the other videos thank you for your time🌈👀💥👍🌿

[@markferraro5250]

great points Mike you coverd the damage and the colloratal damage coil and pcm thanks again

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Mark, you can't just stop at the result. Gotta fix the cause too, right!? Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@SimplyDiagnostics]

Great run through ignition fundamentals Mike. Thanks for sharing. Steve 👍

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Steve, thanks! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@ozzstars_cars]

Professor Mike performing his macarena dance moves 6:53. Pink paint on the end of the spark plug is a good tip, thanks for sharing. haha Another great job with the vid Mr. Becker!

[@GoTechTraining]

Thanks Glen! You gotta see these dance moves, see if you can keep up! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@acarlX]

The problem with this coil on plug design is that one ignition coil (primary winding - secondary winding) is assigned to each plug. If that setup (spark plug, etc) cannot discharge the stored energy in the coil / secondary winding, it will continue to build secondary energy until discharge or overheating occurs. This leads to higher current draw in the primary winding which can eventually destroy the delicate electronic circuitry of the spark plug driver circuits in the PCM (powertrain control module). Back in the "good ole days" of distributors you had one coil for a 4 , 6, or 8 cylinder engine. If one or more plugs did not fire properly and discharge the current in the coil secondary winding, there were other plugs that would discharge the energy. When distributors were made obsolete spark plugs were paired and fired together. Each cylinder had a spark plug that was paired with another cylinder 360 degrees out of phase firing order that would fire on its exhaust stroke. If one cylinder spark plug did not fire its mate would fire and discharge the energy in the coil and thus protect the coil from this type of failure. As others have mentioned engineering needs to add more current limiting software checks and diagnostics to prevent this expensive repair from happening with coil on plug ignition. Of course this type of failure typically happens after the 3 year - 36,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty expires and so the auto manufacturer is not responsible.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey ACarl, what is it that causes the coil not to be able to discharge it's energy? As the coil works harder, due to high secondary resistance it increases in heat, this heat leads to shorting of the coil winding, leading to lower resistance, leading to more amps through the PCM driver...which is what forces it to melt either open or closed to ground. As for engineering adding current limiting, many PCMs have it. This one did not. Also, newer smart coils (3-5 wire coils) take the heavy lifting away from the PCM. At that point it's simply a command signal between the coil and PCM really limiting any chance of failure inside the PCM. Thanks for watching and commenting! :) Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@DmitriyL_Arithmechanics]

Mike, I was really surprised to see the design of this coil -- secondary coil connected to the PCM! Usually it is connected to ground, but here where does the secondary flyback go? To the battery positive through the primary -- and if not fast enough, zapping transistor in the PCM! IMHO, this circuitry is designed to fail when spark plug is disconnected or its gap is too large. Interested to hear your thoughts on this. Another point... is about the short-to-ground diagnostics. Isn't it possible that the suspect wire is touching another wire that, in turn, is grounded by the PCM? When you disconnect the PCM plug, the second wire loses ground, and the suspect wire becomes open loop. I know, it's highly unlikely, but it is just a debugger in me talking -- gotta enumerate all possibilities :) Thanks for a great video!

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Dmitriy, the secondary isn't really connected to the PCM. The primary coil is. Power flows into the primary at all times the key is on, PCM grounds and the primary builds a charge. PCM releases the ground and the charge has to find a path to ground. It jumps to the secondary windings, across the spark plug gap, through the block and back to battery negative. The PCM driver doesn't see that huge KV kick. That is true, if the PCM was holding a circuit to ground and the wire I was looking at was touching that one, sure its possible. But let me ask you this...are there any PCM circuits that will hold to ground inside the PCM with the key turned off? The PCM ground circuits sure, but anything else? Highly unlikely, but you are right, totally possible. So in this instance you would rip up the ENTIRE harness to verify its not touching somewhere in the middle? Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@DmitriyL_Arithmechanics]

Mike, at 6:30 in the video the diagram seems to show a lead of secondary winding connected to a lead of the primary winding, then they go to the PCM. Can you confirm this? Under this assumption things can sometimes go really wrong -- I've done a circuit simulation, you can see it in just-posted video on my channel if you are interested. For the wiring integrity question, is it possible to connect to the corresponding pin at the PCM directly and check continuity to any of the PCM ground pins? That would be a bullet-proof test, but how cumbersome is it?' Thanks for taking the time to answer our questions! P.S. By the way, speaking about the wires, how are the test wires under your truck doing?

[@acarlX]

" . . . . But let me ask you this...are there any PCM circuits that will hold to ground inside the PCM with the key turned off? . . . . " Yes. Evaporative emissions system SMALL leak scenario will test with the ignition key in OFF position. The instructor has commented frequently about a FRONT DOOR and BACK DOOR to vehicle evaporative emissions systems. The BACK DOOR is the vent solenoid to the tank. The PCM will ground that vent solenoid valve for a short period of time after ignition set to OFF. A test can be run to check if the fuel tank, vapor lines and other components of the evaporative emissions control system will hold a vacuum for a certain period of time. These circuits are very low amperage (milliamp range) so no real threat to the PCM circuitry.

[@jant9211]

Very informative video, thanks for the time you put into this.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Jeffrey, thanks for watching! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@southernfriedhippie]

135k on a set of plugs? That's just car abuse! Great video. Thanks.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey, I could not agree more! Thanks for watching! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@pirihern9329]

Cel po448 on 2006 subie sti had po442 and po456 cleared those .replaced purge control valve and charcoal canister found break in a vacuum hose all set except for annoying po448 code . I'll eventually fiqure it .your videos are helping.worst case it my be the pcm. No worries

[@fredbach6039]

Good logic. Good idea to test for a shorted pcm. I like your testing with a filament bulb to draw real current. But we can't really read your multimeter.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Fred, yeh I noticed that while editing :( Sorry! Glad you enjoyed the class though! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@dalebabbitt6185]

Awesome video!!!!!!! I'm chasing a P0301 on a 2009 Escape w/2.5L and 178K miles. Found the spark plug well filled with oil, thought I had the cause in the bag. So with 178K miles and recognizing original parts I opted for 4 new Motorcraft DG-522 coils, 4 new Motorcraft SP-30 plugs and a new Fel-Pro valve cover gasket. STILL GETTING P0301 with cheap scanner tool counts in the hundreds per day. Going to look at a possible injector problem. Your video offered a LOT of insight to look at the PCM driver for cylinder 1. Can you offer any other pearls of wisdom?? Thank you!!!!!!!!

[@GoTechTraining]

Hello Dale, Sounds like a fun diagnostic challenge! I would also check for valve leakage on 2.5L ford engines with higher mileage. Check out our video for more info kzbin.info/www/bejne/eqvcXniwra6lm8k . Ryan Wilsing, Technical Instructor

[@dalebabbitt6185]

@@GoTechTraining Thank you for the advice!! You guys have great videos!!

[@buku2008]

really enjoyed this episode, thank you!

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Buku2008, thanks for watching! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@josephwash109]

I'm sure a lot of people put off changing the spark plugs because the upper intake has to be removed to access the rear bank. I can understand why engines like the GM 3.1, 3.4, and 3.8 had a separate ignition module from the PCM. In a worst-case scenario like this, the ICM is like a "sacrificial" module that would get destroyed, but the PCM would be saved. On those engines, the ICM is plug-and-play and requires no programming, so the repair is more cost-effective. In my opinion, older GM engineers were good at anticipating owner neglect of vehicles and designed them accordingly.

[@GoTechTraining]

Joseph, that does make sense. Newer coils, smart coils, don't make the PCM do the heavy lifting anymore. So, it's less likely to get killed off by a coil. Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@ckeys3rd]

Just an FYI. Because Ford knows there’s a problem, they offer a kit which includes; six coils, six spark plugs, upper plenum and throttle body gasket for around $275.

[@GoTechTraining]

That's really good info to know Carroll, thanks!!! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@mostshady1611]

Carroll, do you have a link for this kit?

[@allendabold5611]

give me the part number for the kit ? I just called Ford dealership and they had no such kit

[@uhavebeengoofed]

Any idea if this kit still exists?

[@VideoGrabBag]

Impressive troubleshooting and instruction.!

[@GoTechTraining]

Thank you very much VideoGrabBag! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@unknownsaint86]

***important*** I had this exact issue with my 07 3.0L fusion. Remove your original spark plugs and save them!!!! When I got my new spark plugs to replace them I was given the part number of sp433, on the side they say agsf 32wm. I noticed the ones that were originally installed, said agsf 32n. These are a nickle spark plug and not a platinum. Your owners manual says to replace your platinum plugs at 100,000. These nickle plugs need to be replaced at 60,000. If you like almost every buyer ever, did not pull your plugs when you bought the vehicle, you would have never known to replace them at 60,000. Running these plugs after 60,000 would require more power to create the spark, causing your ignition coil to short, which in turn will fry your PCM. Mike's video above is completely valid and a great solution. But if you have your original plugs you may be able to get your Ford dealer to replace it at no cost to you or to be able to recoup your costs. I am currently working with my local dealer ship to try to have it taken care of and for them to put out a recall. If any lawyers know how to supoena the factory records of which spark plugs were installed on the factory line, your help would be much appreciated.

[@GoTechTraining]

Nice little PSA there J Rod, thanks! Good luck in your battle! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@tocrob]

an one ownership vehicle ( maybe the factory originals were replaced )? A forum post with pictures of the Milan 3L/V6 factory original "32n" plugs ... www.bobistheoilguy.com/forums/ubbthreads.php/topics/2812898/re-spark-plug-recommendations-3-0l-fusion-milan#Post2812898

[@unknownsaint86]

@@tocrob plugs have never been changed and bought it brand new off the lot in 07.

[@unknownsaint86]

@@tocrob I'm wondering if it was a one off mistake or if it was an issue with a specific factory line.

[@tocrob]

@@unknownsaint86 - the 2011 Crown Vic uses the "32n" but Ford specified a 100K mile service interval. Another 2007 Fusion V6 with the 32n plugs ... kzbin.info/www/bejne/eZDOm4WgptB4ebc

[@anthonyiannone7618]

Had similar problem with an fusion , cant remember the year at the moment but was early to mid 2000's , except the PCM driver on the car i was fixing was burnt open. Coil didnt show any visual sign of overheating though. I opened up pcm also and found same results , drive transistor was cooked .Problem was on one of the rear cylinders. By then ford had updated the coils and pcm . Very expensive repair !!

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Anthony, open circuit is ideal in this situation. That way the car won't start on fire. Thanks for watching! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@januszprominski1952]

great video very informative with how to troubleshoot keep up the great videos

[@GoTechTraining]

Thank you very much Janusz!!! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@WA-zl6ju]

Great video. Doesn’t look like ford really identifies the cause. I agree with your hypothesis with the coil first thing to go bad but ford should give a reason.

[@GoTechTraining]

You're right, it doesn't really put a nail in the coffin of what is the CORE cause. I wish they would, but we can only deal with the information at hand. Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@fieldsofomagh]

Could not agree more about the spark plugs.It is often an item that can do untold damage to the system. A lot of car owners will only call for a replacement when the engine gives trouble and then it's too late. The price of 6 coils , 1 pcm and labour against the price of 6 sparkplugs is really a no brainer. Like the final look at the pcm electronics.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Tom, I could not agree more! The old saying "pay me now, or pay me more later!" Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@shaggysmurf4422]

Yup, I'm here, doing that. Verified damaged PCM. Now if I can just figure out the numbers to get a replacement, not as easy where I live.

[@mfreed22]

Ford was aware of this problem and the potential for thousands of damaged PCM's, soon after most warrenties were expiring. Fearing fall out or possible recall they extended warrenties on plug coil packs to 8 yrs or 80, 000 miles but only if original owner, or some shit. Pre PCM damage. The fact that no one has died or been seriously injured can only be explained by lack of reporting because most mechanics didn't know. Repairing coil packs & plugs doesn't fix it. That's a guess based on mechanics early findings. $900, all new coils & plugs. Still replacing sensors, charging batteries, chasing dummy lights and parasitic draws. But what do I know? I'm just a woman that started looking into the problem online. There's not enough people doing that to get the class action suit off the ground but there is an established real safety concern in the 100's of accounts, like mine, on nhs tab page. Where the car loses power, at random, at 70 mph on the highway, making a left hand turn, merging into traffic, crossing an intersection, while in the wilderness. Losing power to your 2 ton, deadliest machine known to human kind, iis negligent & criminal . Because in Ford's own words. It starts to be a problem after warranty. Even some of Ford s own are too prideful or lazy to dig deeper. After explaining my situation and still experiencing 4 of 5 symptoms laid out in TSB. I broke & paid the $145 diagnostic fee (credited towards repair😕) at Ford dealer . AGAIN, I explained my findings after the $900 repair with the local mechanic didn't work. They got my diagnosis fee & nothing more. Shameful. After looking at their estimate of over $400 to replace the FRPS. Just another sensor gone bad. That's what their computer said . When I asked if they would be willing to stand by that repair & give me 3 months warranty. If I was to throw another sensor in that time, they would do PCM repair for 1/2 price. They laughed at the stupid middle aged, single mom driving a 2005 vehicle and expecting it to get me over 100k miles before major repair . Maybe pass it down to my daughter. Like my mom had done for me. I did a quick look up & watched a couple videos of awesome mechanics, like these, on you tube. $32.00, 2 screws, lube and 10 minutes later I HAD FIXED IT MYSELF . Growing up in Michigan, with a families small business able to provide my brother & I college efucations. I was taught to buy local from your neighbors or the companies they worked for that PAID taxes & were invested in your community. That you may pay a little more than at large super stores. But it will come back full circle. Those days are gone, I'm afraid. Our entire landscape is s forever changed. This is the 5th Ford SUV in my 4 decades of driving. This the first that wasn't handed down to me by a 5000 mile a year mom. I did my research, I'd thought. KBB, FORD FORUMS, CARFAX, CONSUMERS REPORT, ETC This is highlighted on only one sight giving ratings on used cars. (I'm trying to change that). I wasn't nor were my daughter's, taken for their driver's test until they knew how to change a tire, check & add fluids, and demonstrate safety checks before road trips. I drove 50,000 miles a year, for 20 years. Each if the 4 previous models I proudly sold, over 150,000 miles, running like a top. Wear & tear but some of us go for the no payments, low insurance costs by choice or need, and find it worth the low cost, out of pocket, maintenance. To not worry about going over our lease miles or repo man if sick for a week. Like so many things these days ....profits have preceeded pride in Corporate America. Make a car that lasts over 100k with regular maintenance. Is just bad for the bottom line anymore. Disposable economy is destroying trust & good will, not to mention the planet. Sorry for the rant. After a worry free 3 months (keeping track of miles on odo cuz obd doesn't match reality) or computer unable to clear code. What code? Oh, that 2as last month . No codes this week. But am again without transportation for 48 hours while I trickle charge the completely dead battery. That I now must disconnect every night or parasite will deplete it again. I can't get a good feel for if throwing more money, in the way of junkyard or flashed unit can work? It's my understanding that reprogramming software is notoriously tricky and or a gamble. But then I saw where an updated release of the software was made available just Dec. 22, 2021. Idk if license required but just ss

[@unknownsaint86]

Hi Mike. I like thousands of others have had this problem with my 07 Ford fusion sel 3.0 L. I just started having this problem and replaced the faulty coils and plugs. Should I try clearing my PCM before I remove it and send it out to be repaired? Wonderful video and explanations. Keep up the great work.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey J Rod, sure you can try to perform a clearing of the PCM. It may or may not work. Maybe you caught it early enough and everything will be ok? Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@uhavebeengoofed]

Did you ever get the pcm repaired? Any idea of what that costs? I have an 07 SE 3.0L and should probably replace coils and plugs. Dont want anything to happen. 135k miles

[@veterandd214]

Awesome vid very accurate thank you you have a great Channel keep it up buddy

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Veternadd214, thank you for watching! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@lesliedsouza4077]

One tired engineer had commented that the maintenance light should be connected to a sparkplug coil in the driver seat :)

[@GoTechTraining]

Haha that's one way to make it happen. I like how on new cars the factory remote start doesn't work with the engine light on. That's a good way to get people to come in. Next maybe they should disable the radio! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@haywardsautomotive6156]

HAHA this smells terrible but let me smell it again yes this smells terrible. Well at least I'm not the only one that smells burnt electrical parts more than once :D Nice diagnosis TSBs TSBs TSBs they can save you so much time chasing your butt only to find out if you'd have read the TSB you could have fixed it with a reflash or repair in the TSB. Great video Mike and hopefully you only smelled the burnt transistor only twice :D

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey, smell this, its horrible...proceeds to take a whiff...I think that's human nature haha! TSBs should be the start of any good diag! Thanks for watching Bob :) Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Thanks Mike! Good info!

[@GoTechTraining]

Thanks for watching! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@dealerauctionnightmare4689]

I had this same problem on an 07 Escape, PCM it was. I also went ahead and replaced all plugs and coils.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Hello Fresh, I believe that's the same engine, the 3.0L V6. Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@dealerauctionnightmare4689]

@@GoTechTraining it sure was.

[@tonyjcool5314]

thanks for details , good info , I do have 3.0 ford 2004 that now and then shot misfire code.

[@GoTechTraining]

Thanks for watching Tonyj. Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@mrzamrza9345]

Informative. Thank you. Stay safe and healthy.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hi mrza, Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for supporting the channel! ~Ryan Wilsing

[@mbs5328]

Nice case study. But I wish you had shown the reprogramming (reflashing) of the new PCM.

[@GoTechTraining]

I might next time, we'll see! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@Automotive_Solutions]

Great video. Thanks for putting this together.

[@GoTechTraining]

Thanks for watching! :) Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@richardcranium5839]

paint marker is used as a visual on the assembly line. each plug installer has their own color. when the plug (or bolt or fastener) is installed and torqued it is paint markered. thus eliminating problems with breaks.shift change lunch etc. if you see its not paint markered. you can stop the assembly line and correct it before it gets out the door

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Richard, thanks for that insight! That totally makes sense! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@jgeorges3061]

Mike, great diagnostics and explanation thanks for sharing. cheeeers

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey J Georges! Thanks, cheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeers! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@enriquemartinez7990]

Thank you Mike I look forward for the other videos thank you for your time🌈👀💥👍🌿

[@GoTechTraining]

Thanks Enrique! Appreciate you taking the time to comment! :) Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@daniellee5690]

Absolutely fantastic video!

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Dan, thanks man!!! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@daniellee5690]

@@GoTechTraining wanted to come back and say thanks again. Used information in this video to have a local electronics repair place swap the damaged transistor and sense resistor for me. Runs like a charm, saved a lot of money, cant thank you enough Mike!

[@gregyoder3693]

I had codes showing misfires on cylinders 2 and 4. The PCM tested faulty when swapping front coils, so I sent the PCM off to repair, and replaced all original (2005) spark plugs and coils. After replacing the upper intake, and checking for air leaks, it started right up. But now its starting to run rough. Bummer, I forgot to change PCV valve on the intake, so now I'll be back pulling the intake, replacing the PCV and any bad vaccum lines.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Greg, smart to replace them all. How long did it take to get the PCM fixed and back? Sounds like a bit of a lengthy process. Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@faustogonzalez8397]

Great job, really enjoyed it!

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Fausto, thanks for watching!!! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@footpuppy100]

How to wire left headlight, high and low for ford escape, 06. Not bulb or fuse. Directional works. Socket had some rust.

[@frankgonzalez24]

Use one of the working old coils and a new coil to compare primary and secondary ignition waveforms.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hmmm, I should have...next one i'll do that! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@czerus2233]

We experienced this on our 03 Ford Escape 3.0L V6 but worst case scenario. Engine harness are melted and also the FICM (Fuel Injection Control Module) harness, Coil packs fried, PCM malfuntion (not letting the OBDII scanner diagnose/read errors execpt the pending/saved codes before the PCM lost everything), Alternator with regulator fried, saved error codes are throttle body sensor, coolant temp sensor, Transmission shift solenoid error and idle air control valve error. To this day 2023 we're changing parts from harnesses and all the mentioned parts that failed got replaced and now we're installing new coils and spark plugs before putting a new PCM on the way. The engine harness near the exhaust probably started it and this 1st gen Escapes had flimsy and skinny grounding wires we replaced and that crappy battery terminal with quality gauge 2 wires with quick disconnect terminals. We also retapped the threads of body grounding locations like everything from engine to body, transmission to body, alternator and battery grounding, the head lights, and inside the cabin grounding down the passenger side lower peeler panel. This is a well known problems with this 3.0L V6 we got ours the worst and made our research a bit too late 😢😢

[@greggmarshall3799]

Well done video. Very informative.

[@GoTechTraining]

Thank you very much Gregg! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@L1Training]

Good job mike!

[@GoTechTraining]

Thanks Keith! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@paulfiebke3909]

❤this one keep up the good work

[@Semnyi]

Good explanations. Thanks for your videos. Great

[@GoTechTraining]

Thank you for watching, glad you liked it! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@PaulWalker-lk3gi]

Awesome video. Very helpful -- thank you.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Paul, Thanks for watching! Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@PaulWalker-lk3gi]

@@GoTechTraining I have a question maybe you can help me with -- I had the coils and plugs replaced for this issue but the issue persisted due to the damaged pcm. I drove the car for about 1 mile from the garage to my home. Do I now need to do the entire job over again with PCM or is it possible that the coils and plugs are ok and I can just replace the PCM.

[@Mr572u]

Great video. This guy is sharp!

[@fishwhisperer101]

I had a very similar issue with a Triton V-10. Loss of power, entire right bank. No change when removing one or all of the plug wires but it idled very smoothly. Found ground when checking wiring from coil pack to PCM (multiple cylinders). Finally pulled plug on pcm and ground went away. Turned out to be a shorted power transistor shorting the switching for the bank, making it impossible to build up a charge. Unfortunately, I was unable to identify the correct replacement transistor so I replaced the entire PCM and coil packs. All is well.

[@fishwhisperer101]

I forgot to mention that there were error codes for all pri/sec coils in that bank.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Dave, sucks when that happens! Costly repair on that truck I'm sure. Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@danielmerritt4031]

Awesome work Mike!!

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Daniel thanks! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@Diagnosedan]

Great job Mike! Do you need a subscription to enter that Wells Ve page?

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Dan, no you don't. All free to use! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@cobracommander2007]

My eco boost mustang blew a spark plug “cracked in half” and it started a long journey into my PCM failing. Over the last 2 years it has been intermittently misfiring more and more until now that it can not be driven.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Leo, thanks for watching! That sounds like a long journey. Is it all fixed up now? Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@cobracommander2007]

Its at the mechanic as I write this. I will post an update when it completed

[@cobracommander2007]

So my car is running perfectly again. I hade a damaged connector on the coil pack wire. New pigtail installed and car is running great again. Now I can schedule my car for a tune.

[@cgarnica3]

Wow 😯 great video well explained thank you

[@GoTechTraining]

Thank you very much Christian!! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@Frank-pv1hp]

Mike, I'm pretty sure that the RM suffix stands for remanufactured.

[@GoTechTraining]

Frank, you may just be right, that does make sense! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@johnmckamy6398]

thanks for the video Mike. At what point would Ford replace the PCM as a recall? which they probably wouldn't do for somebody that went 35,000 miles overdue on the plugs but say it happened on a vehicle that was properly maintained? Thanks again.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey John, most likely only under factory or extended Ford warranty. Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@barrondeville509]

I had this happen today after a timing chain replacement I did on my 2013 ecoboost. I have no coil drivers on any coil now, and only cylinder 2 shorted, is it possible to short out all drivers from one shorted coil? I am a mechanic and i have tested everything you have tested. all grounds were reinstalled after the timing chain job and are strong... no wires seem to be damaged..

[@Favorkmsoft]

Hello, I need your help, I change ECU in Ford escape 2004 V6, I put ecu for mandatory tribute, and the car started, I find out cylinder 2 and 6 doesn't working, my question is : can the ECU I changed can affect the cylinder others cylinders do not work?

[@heinhtetzaw1149]

Great video ,Mike

[@GoTechTraining]

Thanks Hein! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@chuckfrumunda1835]

Good job explaining 👏 👍

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Chuck, Glad you liked it! Thanks for watching! ~Ryan Wilsing

[@mr.technician4144]

Sir..would you please make a video on how the ecm determine misfire on specific cylinder by using cam. And crank. Sensors?.....

[@GoTechTraining]

Sure, someday! The ECM watches crank speed and looks for excessive variations in the speed. If the crank slows down it's because the cylinder didn't fire. Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@mr.technician4144]

@@GoTechTraining ok sir im glad you reply thank you so much I will wait....I am a filipino GM technician here in saudi arabia.....I always watch your videos Im one of your youtube subscribers...you have very technical explanation and I love to watched your videos....thank you so much godbless....

[@mr.technician4144]

@@GoTechTraining I dont know how ecm know a specific cylinder mis....on 8 or 6 cylinders one or two mis...how ecm interprets inputs from cranks. And cam sensors to overcome dtc for specific cylinder....

[@jeremyanthony9300]

excellent video Mike

[@GoTechTraining]

Thanks Jeremy! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@billrobarge9472]

Maybe the engineers messed up with their plug gap vs coil calculations??. .055 is a big gap unless your running after market high performance coils?? Will undergapping the plugs avoid all this bull crap??

[@NickyVEE89]

Dang i wish i would have seen this before i just replaced , pcm , coils, and plugs. Saved over 2000 doing it myself. But was still 1250 bucks. I measured the old plugs. Half of them were over .60.... I went through a place called circuit board medics and they were awesome. Paid for next day shipping which was more than reasonable. Dealership wanted more for the pcm than what I paid for everything. Anyways good video.

[@erernan4734]

Hi brother i have a ford fusion 2006 but the theft auto is on so the computer connection has no power I all ready checked the fuses but the r good do u have any idea how can I fix it ?

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Er Ernan, so the car is stuck in anti-theft mode? ~Mike

[@erernan4734]

Yeah I was driving came to the house and when I tried to go somewhere it stopped working and like a week later star whit no problem and then later a week after stopped working again

[@Johnkb2059]

On a point type ignition system you're only burn up the coil if you leave the key on if the points are at the closed position

[@GoTechTraining]

How likely was it that the points are open when the car shut off? Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@haywardsautomotive6156]

The big difference is point systems had ballast resistor or resistor wire reducing the voltage & amperage to 9V however leaving the key "On" with the points partially open would cause arcing and transfer metal between the contacts which changed the gap changing the dwell and timing so the engine would run like crap and usually backfire and sometimes not start. File the points flat, gap to @.017", dwell @30 degrees and set timing and you were good for 4-8K until the rubbing block wore down and the points gap closed up. 12K was the tune-up limit and now we are >100K. If the coil was a quality high capacity high output coil it would be alright b/c they were larger and had more oil to keep the coil cool but there were tons of poor quality coils back then that would leak or the bakelite would crack and the arcing would begin. You'd find it sometimes when it bit you but the water bottle was your friend. Dim the lights, spray the mist on the coil, distributor and plug wires and watch the fireworks. I don't miss those days but did make a tom of $$ on tuneups especially with carburetors. I like technology!!

[@GoTechTraining]

The "not so good ole' days"? Work was harder not smarter back then thats for sure. More things rebuilt, more repair more often. I mean...some motors now never have a valve cover off in 200,000 miles.... Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@IsshmanGarcia]

First! Good refresher Mike.

[@GoTechTraining]

Nice! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@lesliedsouza4077]

Sir, You are The Maestro :)

[@GoTechTraining]

Haha thanks Leslie! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@upkarbath]

Great work mike,you should make video of programing this pcm too

[@GoTechTraining]

I will at some point! Stay tuned :) Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@lorenjackson7358]

This is a great instructional video!. I have codes P0300, P0304, P0305, P0306, P0355, P0606. Coil 6 looks fine, No Noid light on cyl 6, If I connect my test light to the positive battery terminal, key off, I get a light on the grey wire across cyl's 4, 5, and 6. Not part of the diagnostic you did. ( I haven't looked at the rear bank yet. ) Is that normal? I do get the test light when connected to the negative battery terminal, key on, across the three GY wires as expected.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Loren Jackson, If the GY wire is the same across all of the coils then that's most likely the main power feed. You should see power on that any time the key is on. The ground side is what controls the coil turning on and off. Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@bobomomo3764]

Can this happen to ford's 2.5L engine? It's basically the same wiring diagram design with only 4 coils So to avoid this we should get the spark plugs changed before they completely wear. How about changing coils after hitting a milestone even when they are still ok I'm thinking about this to be safe. After 120k for example

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Bobo Momo, I have not seen this happen on the 2.5Ls. The 2.5ls are known for burning up valves though. ~Mike

[@robinsonsmotorcycleandauto3929]

Great Video and cant believe you dont have a AES wave lead kit lol. Like your multimeter leads though I need some of those

[@GoTechTraining]

I do have it! Should have used it here!!!! Ugh, sometimes i'm too caught up in the moment haha! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@wysetech2000]

Well done Mike!

[@GoTechTraining]

Thanks for watching! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@lesliedsouza4077]

Then again, if there's a sparkplug coil in the driver's seat as a maintenance alert - Some drivers would never want to have it fixed :)

[@GoTechTraining]

Electrify your life! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@xylonify]

Thanks, Mike, for your excellent diagnosis. I was wondering if you would lose the 5v reference in this case .Not that I believe that, because this is not a power and ground issue to the pcm. Also, most likely you would have a no communication code, right?

[@GoTechTraining]

Thank you for watching! 5V reference on here was fine. In fact, the PCM was just fine...except for that one coil driver circuit. The car ran, poorly, but it ran. Think of the PCM as a whole bunch of individual circuits. Only 1 circuit was bad inside of here. That makes sense? Kinda like a fuse box with 1 bad fuse. Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@xylonify]

It does make sense. Thanks, Mike.

[@ansif83]

thanks for going into details.

[@GoTechTraining]

Thanks for watching Furqan! Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@bbmd2200]

Hello, Mike. As usual, nice presentation and very informative. I am trying to understand why you get ground with the battery disconnected and also if the positive battery cable is shorted to ground, is the engine block becomes power and causes spark at the negative battery cable when you try to connect it? As the negative now becomes shorted. Thank you.

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Carlo, thanks for watching! When the battery is disconnected we no longer have "ground." I believe you are talking about the OHM test to "ground." All that is doing is showing there is a path for flow to what is normally ground. If the positive cable were shorted to ground you would melt something or possibly even start a fire. Direct shorting the positive cable to ground essentially turns it into a welder. Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@bbmd2200]

Thank you for replying, Mike. The reason I asked about the positive cable is that one tech installed a starter and the positive cable at the starter touched ground, resulting in spark at the negative battery cable. I was just trying to understand how you get sparks at the negative battery terminal from a shorted positive cable. Thanks again!

[@GoTechTraining]

Sparks can happen anytime you have a connection issue in the circuit. The positive and negative cable both pass the current. A circuit is a circle...you can get sparks in any part of it because the current is constant through the circle. Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@bbmd2200]

Thank you for this brilliant explanation, Mike. I would have never figured that out on my own.

[@Andre-tc1wj]

Great Video. When you replace the PCM what tools do you use to flash or learn process. Do you order parts from dealer or online?

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Andre, thanks for watching! I purchased the PCM from my local dealer. I then flashed it using my Autel J-2534 box that came with my Autel Elite scanner and used Ford's software that I purchased through Motorcraft service. Mike Becker, Senior Instructor

[@Andre-tc1wj]

@@GoTechTraining Thanks for the info. My Brother has it at the dealer now after a shop changed all the plugs and coils and still had a miss fire. Im waiting now to see if they checked the pcm. Your video was on point and exact. 👍

[@littlebeargaming8267]

Very informative, Mike. This video answers a lot of my questions. One question though. Besides the coatings being melted causing the short, couldn't the expansion of the coils from heat cause them to touch each other and facilitate the creation of the short as well?

[@GoTechTraining]

Hey Littlebear Gaming, great! The coil is all sealed up in epoxy, the wingdings expand and contract at the same rate. Overheating though, will melt the coating that is on the windings and cause them to short together. Mike Becker, Senior Technical Instructor

[@littlebeargaming8267]

Thank you, Mike.

[@rico2207]

Great explanation..