2002 Escape-Check Engine Light P0351

[claspilljm]

I am wondering if there is anyone that can help me - I have a 2002 4x2 Escape 3.0L Duratex V6 with a check engine light that keeps coming on. I've had the vehicle to the Ford Service Center 9 times for the same problem since September 2007 and the last time (a week ago) it was in, they said it was giving a code P0351. They reset the check engine light and said if it happens again they will try replacing all the spark plugs and see if that fixes the problem. This suggestion is based on a Technical Service Bulletin (05-11-01 MIL on with multiple coil primary circuit) they received from a Ford Tech.

In an attempt to educate myself with the basics, I think I've learned this is a misfire, possibly in the #1 spark plug (any confirmation of this would be really helpful!). The #1 spark plug and #1 Cyl Ign Coil were replaced on 9/26/07, which was my 3rd visit to the dealership for same problem. Basically, as I would roll to a stop, the car would shudder and feel like it was going to die and then the check engine light would come on. This happened on 9/17/07, 9/24/07, 9/26/07, 10/2/07, 10/4/07, 10/9/07, 11/26/07, 6/3/08 and 6/15/08.

I have an appointment to go in on Thursday and am trying to figure out if it's really necessary to replace all the spark plugs or if they should start with replacing the one they've already replaced.

I've also been reading about another problem that causes the check engine light to come on - a DPFE sensor. I'm not sure what this is or if this could be the cause of my error P0351.

Any suggestions or tips would be most appreciated - I'm about at the end of my "let's try this" rope. Thank you!

[rhandwor]

If they have a service bulletin they must have gotten a bad batch of plugs.
Are they paying and installing the plugs free. I personally would buy a new plug and install it if I was paying the cost. Generally they have a good reason for a service bulletin.
With a world economy you don't know where they got the plugs. You may also have gotten a bad coil. They really need to check the car find another tech.

[claspilljm]

Yesterday (6/20) they replaced all six spark plugs with a newer version that was suggested in the TSB (part number AGSF-32W-M1F4), at my expense (of course). They said that the Ford tech they spoke with told them that this should fix the problem. If it doesn't, then they want to replace all six coils and the PCM. Needless to say, I'm really praying that the spark plugs fix the problem! I wish my husband or I were smart enough to change spark plugs and such, but we're just not sure that we're qualified to be messing with cars! :-)

[rhandwor]

The dealers used to be responsible for all repairs for the computer system for 50,000 miles. I don't know the mileage on your vehicle but I assume it started before 50,000 miles. I would check on this.
Computer and coils will cost you over $1200.00 at the dealer.