Check engine

[learning2serv]

Have had related prob with my 99 Windstar. My engine was running a little rough and the Check Engine Light came on, and wanted to get a nip on it before it bit me. Took it in three times, but eventually my mechanic was nice enough to pass on a good bit of info.

They first replaced my upper intake manifold gaskets, which didn't fix the computer readout. They then flashed my computer with the newest standards (Alaska, not California), and the computer and light have been happy since, but it's still running rough. Took it in again and they said replace the entire lower manifold - but my warranty company says "outta your pocket!".

Trouble seems to be that the manifold system is a little tweaked on the Windstar. Ford's aware of the problem and has a kit that's designed to replace gaskets, covers, bolts, etc... - that's my next shot, and I'm hoping my warrantee will cover it.

[luvmybronco]

Hello,
New to the site....I just bought a used 99 Windstar w/ 78,000 miles for my wife...3 days after purchace, the engine light came on. Took it to Auto Zone, showed 174 code...(Mass Air, Ignition misfire, Injector, or O2 sensors...) Took it in for oil change/service at Wal-Mart day after I bought it. They changed the air filter, so I assumed they messed with the mass air wires. Disconected the batt. light went off, and came back on after 3 days. I work on auto's all the time, but mostly classics. I know it can't be a misfire, cause I would hear it, and it can't be an injector cause I would feel it. It runs smooth all the time, so it has to be either the mass air, or O2 sensors. The intake looks to be leaking a little oil on the drivers side (Back of engine) Can I check vac. leaks by spraying started fluid around the intake?

Also, The air bag light just started flashing 32, five times, then stays on. Disconected the batt. again, and does the same thing. Does anyone know what code 32 is for the airbag?

I can't say the prev. owner knew of these peoblems, but It's hard buying a used vehicle, cause sometimes the seller just wants to unload it....
TIA

[12Ounce]

lovemybronco

There is a good chance there is an air leak in the air filter canister that is causing code P0174. Using the correct procedure (outlined in Haynes, by the way), replacing the air filter is easy to do... but if a person insists on disassembling/reassembling the canister all under the hood ... well, look out! The "correct" way is to: disconnect the electrics, disconnect the small sensor hose, loosen one clamp at the throttle body...and lift the whole thing out of the engine compartment...to be serviced on a work bench. This minimizes the chance of causing air leaks.

The air bag fault message, or "lamp fault code" (LFC) needs to be addressed. Unless you are a very skilled repair person, please leave it to a dealer. The air bag is a "secondary restraint system" (SRS) .. and is managed by the "restaints control module" (RCM). Code #32 indicates "Driver air bag resistance high" ... may be a loose str col elect connection, or problem with the "clock spring", or ????. For more info, refer to section 501-20B of the Ford shop manual.

[crazymoon]

Hey guys would a vacuum leak cause a vehicle to surge or buck at certain MPH. when i replaced the IMRC on the van i put in a new gasket but used the same bolts on the intake manifold. i want to say that it sounds like a leak or hissing coming from the top of the manifold. i did spray some carb cleaner to see if the engine would race but it did not. whats a really good way to check for vacuum leaks for a DIY mechanic.