1996 Ford Taurus problems

[mommyoftwo]

We ran a Diagnostic Code Reader on my mom's 96 Taurus and it came up with 5 codes:
P0401 - EGR Flow Insufficient
P0420 - Catalyst Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1)
P0430 - Catalyst Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 2)
P0301 - Cylinder 1 Misfire detected
P0302 - Cylinder 2 Misfire detected

We know that two of the spark plugs need changed for the 301 and 302 codes (the person that changed them for her said they could not get to two of them because the engine would need to be tilted to get to them?) but we aren't sure about the other three codes. Can anyone help us on this? What do we need to do or have checked? The car doesn't stall, but it cuts out while driving. She has had the fuel filter replaced within the past six months.

Also, how hard is it to change the #1 and 2 spark plugs? They are the ones that are needed and according to my Haynes manual, I can't see it being a major problem but I was hoping that someone that has actually done it could let me know.

She also has the brake light on. She has had everything except for the brake line replaced and the brakes seem to be working fine. Any ideas?

Thank you for any help or advice you can give.
Christi

[Smith1000]

You can probably get those 2 plugs changed on the back side without tilting the engine forward. The ones on the back side are always more difficult to get to, but they can be reached. Probably need a short extension on the plug socket. Might try pressing the plug wires on tighter first to make sure it is not just a couple of loose plug wires causing the misfire. Might check the brake fluid level and top it off if low. Also, make sure the emergency brake pedal isn't depressed slightly causing the light to stay on. Not sure what the other codes mean, but I would suspect maybe the catalytic converter that is partially clogged, so that the exhaust gas recirculation is not flowing sufficiently...not sure though. Someone else might have a better idea.

[sfontain]

You gave no information about what engine you have or the mileage on your car, which is rather not useful.

It sounds like you have the Duratec. If so, it's a pain to get to the #1 and #2 plugs. A lot of people remove their upper intake manifold to get to those plugs, then clean out the removed parts while they're at it. The engine doesn't have to be "tilted," whatever that means. If you have the Vulcan, these plugs are annoying but not terribly difficult with a plug socket and short extension.

You SHOULD NOT only replace some of the spark plugs. Do them all, or do none. Get the other 2 changed, then erase your codes with the reader, drive until the MIL illuminates again, and read the codes. If you still get the EGR code, then replace your EGR valve. Then erase the codes again and see if the MIL comes on again; if so, read the codes and let us know what you get.

[mwt]

The P0401 is a know problem it is the DPFE sensor and has been bad since ford started using them in 96.

Parts stores call it the EGR pressure sensor. Do not put on a new EGR valve as it is not the problem

Mike