Ford 2002 Windstar engine light on

[DavidChen]

Hi all,

My Ford 2002 Windstar engine light on code is PO 170/171. I have these issue for a period of time. I went to several mechanics try to fix the issue. After the repair, the light was off for either several months or weeks. Then, the light on again.

I have another friend who owns a Ford 2000 Windstar which experience the similiar problem.

My questions:
First, Is this is a known Ford's problem?
Second, Any other suggestion? I have spent quite a few $$$ to solve this issue?
Shall I go to Ford Dealer in stead of mechanic?

Third, Or if I just ignore the engine light warnning keep driving? Any damage
to the van?

Thanks in advance.

David

[wiswind]

Give this site a visit for information on a TSB for the problem you have.
I think that they had started putting the improved valve cover on by 2002, but this site tells you how to check to be sure.
http://leckemby.net/windstar/windstar01.html

[DavidChen]

Thanks the information. The web site is very useful.

The error code is: PO 171 & PO 174.
Autozone rep suggests that replace the Mass Air Flow Sensor (MAF) shoudl solve the problem. MAF is cost closely to $100.

Any suggestion? Do I need change MAF or jsut follow the web site instruction?

Thanks.

David

[wiswind]

I would follow the website instructions.
I do have instructions and pictures of how to clean the MAF on my '96 in my pictures at http://community.webshots.com/album/201931518cScpNK

Please note that many things are different on my '96 versus your newer model, but you should get the idea on the MAF cleaning.
You will need a non-residue electronic cleaner.

[garync1]

A lot of people have this problem most of the time its the isolator bolts and port seals.I replaced mine and the problem went away.. Also on these windstars the intake manifold snaps together with the upper baffel and on cold starts you can hear a engine knock sound if you apply presssure to the upper intake and it goes away then you know as well you have the upper intake problem. The isolator bolts run about 79.00 for a set of 8 and 6 intake port seals run 20.00 or so bucks about 100.00 for both maybe a little less or more depending on the dealer. The dealer wanted 600.00 to do it not sure if that was with the replacement of the upper intake like he suggested. I did the isolator bolts and port seals and new upper intake manifold for a little over 200.00 off the top of my head maybe a few bucks more. Now if you have under 50,000 miles on your van you maybe able to pull the federal law on them. All cars trucks and van are covered by federal law emmissons act if it under 5yrs 50,000 mile emissions waranty..171 -174 is lean bank that means the emissions is off. it would not pass inspection. Some people have had this problem solved with this act... under 50,000miles take too the dealer...hope this helps..

[DavidChen]

Hi all,

After dealer checked the problem, it's PO171 & PO174 issues. Dealer has replaced the fault intake gaskets & isolate bolts.

I have purchased the extend warranty. So, it's under warranty cover. I just need pay the deductible $100.

Thank you for the information.

David