code p0203 injector

Hi. My daughters car is a 2004 Taurus, V6, with 108k miles. Right after Christmas she told me she thought the transmission was going bad (Merry Christmas Dad :-), very jerky at 40+ mph. I test drove it, and confirmed that around 40mph and maybe ten or so mph higher it was hesitating and jerking. But it didn't feel like it was the transmission slipping.

I plugged in my Carchip, and got following codes:
P0203 - Injector circuit - cylinder 3
P0103 - Mass or volume air flow circuit high input
Then either a P1883 or occasional P1882 (both Unknown Powertrain)

Those repeat every so often in that order/grouping

I pulled the air filter - completely clogged, replaced
I removed the MAF and cleaned it with MAF cleaner from CRC
Put it all back together, and test drove it.
Now runs smooth again when transitioning thru that speed range. I filled up her tank and pulled out on highway... no problem, but the engine light is back on. Same three codes again.

Any suggestions on how to proceed? It is her commuting car to local college, and I want a safe vehicle, etc. I must have fixed something as the car drives better.

Thanks

Welcome to the forum!

Did you clear the codes after you replaced the air filter and cleaned the MAF?

-Rod

Yes, as far as I am able to. My CarChip EX has an option for clearing the engine light, which appears to clear any codes. I also cleared the CarChips memory.

Reading thru the forum posts, I am wondering if I should try an injector cleaner (in tank type), then perhaps have that injector cleaned?

BTW, I am having a slight problem on the forum. When I use the Quick Reply at the bottom of the page, I can't get anything to post using the "Post Quick Reply" button. I tried three times. A message comes up right below the buttons that says "Posting Quick Reply - Please wait", but nothing happens and browser just says "done" at the bottom. If I click "Go Advanced" I can use the "Submit Reply" button to post. I am using firefox 3.0.5.

The P0203 code would indicate that the driver for the injector within the PCM is faulty, and the wiring harness and injector self tests check okay. According to the factory service manual, the only possible cause for this code is a faulty PCM.

One of the causes of the P0103 code also could be a damaged PCM, so it's not looking good for the PCM. :(

-Rod