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Ford Windstar Warning Lights/Codes

91 messages,  Last post on Oct 08, 2012 at 6:32 PM

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What is this discussion about? Ford Windstar, Ford Windstar Cargo, Van

Messages Page 2 of 10

#8 of 91 Re: ABS light on 2003 Ford Windstar [genstym] by jimlab

Aug 13, 2006 (6:46 am)

Replying to: genstym (Aug 12, 2006 9:32 am)
On our van, the only light that comes on is the ABS light, no brake light. It also does not come on right away, if at all.
 
From what I have read, the ABS module does a static test when the ignition is first turned on. It checks the resistances to the various sensors and if everything is within spec, it turns the ABS light off. After the vehicle reaches a certain speed, 10 mph rings a bell, it then checks the system dynamically looking for proper voltages from the wheel sensors. It also performs some type of a test on the actual abs pump and actuators. If this passes, the light remains off, otherwise it turns on.
 
My ABS light seems to come on after the dynamic test. I get a code of c1185 which points to either a wiring issue or controller failure. The funny things is that it does not come on all the time.
 
I hate to replace the module if it is just a simple wiring issue. I heard mention of the ground issue/kit and just wanted to get more details.

#9 of 91 Re: ABS Light [jimlab] by mlpntr

Aug 13, 2006 (7:18 am)

Replying to: jimlab (Aug 11, 2006 12:13 pm)
I haven't fixed mine yet. After $1000's spent keeping it running a light never seemed like a big issue when it gave no codes and the brakes worked fine. My information is from my uncle who worked for Ford and has helped me out when I get stuck on a problem with mine.
He said that the problem is with an extra ground wire that just needs to be removed. I think the fix kit includes a wire cap. I will give him him a call and see if he can fill me in a little more on it.
 
Melissa

#10 of 91 Re: ABS Light [mlpntr] by jimlab

Aug 13, 2006 (7:40 pm)

Replying to: mlpntr (Aug 13, 2006 7:18 am)
That would be great if you could get some more details- Perhaps you could ask him if Ford has a TSB for this issue.
 
Jim

#11 of 91 Re: ABS Light [jimlab] by arnala

Aug 15, 2006 (11:09 am)

Replying to: jimlab (Aug 11, 2006 12:13 pm)
Hello Jim
I have the same vehicle same year. I could see a comment refiring this ground conection and a "kit" refeired for that. If you know how is that kit, please let me know. I try to fix this problem too.
Thanks
Arnaldo M

#12 of 91 Re: ABS Light [mlpntr] by arnala

Aug 15, 2006 (11:16 am)

Replying to: mlpntr (Aug 03, 2006 7:13 am)
Hello Steve
Could you explain me what kind of kit it is?
What I need to do?
Thanks
Arnaldo M

#13 of 91 Re: ABS Light [mlpntr] by arnala

Aug 15, 2006 (11:19 am)

Replying to: mlpntr (Aug 13, 2006 7:18 am)
Hi Melissa,
Please let me know if you have news about it.
 
Thanks
Arnaldo M

#14 of 91 Winstar engine light on but runs fine by urq11

Sep 15, 2006 (9:03 am)

We have a 1996 Windstar that the engine light recently came on for which seems to be running perfect. It has about 132k miles on it and my wife recalls that this also happened with about with 60k miles on it. However, we cannot recall if the light just went out automatically with the previous event or if we had to have someone turn it off, as there was no problem at that time with event at about 60K miles.
 
My question is if anyone knows if there are cycles in mileage where the engine light may automatically go on (such as current approx. 130k) even with not problem. I hate to try to pay to chase this down if there is nothing wrong or light can be easily turned off if no actual engine problem. As it also turns out we are buying a new vehicle and cannot sell/smog the 1996 Windstar in CA with the engine light on.

#15 of 91 Re: Winstar engine light on but runs fine [urq11] by acelady

Sep 17, 2006 (6:55 pm)

Replying to: urq11 (Sep 15, 2006 9:03 am)
If you don't want to pay to have the codes read, take it to your nearest AUTOZONE. They will hook it up and read the codes for you.
 
If it is anything serious, they will let you know and you can take care of it then.
 
Good luck to you.

#16 of 91 windstar question by zappfam

Nov 05, 2006 (9:37 am)

has any one ever had the problem with obd2 codes 171 and 174 only showing up in the cold weather? my 1999 windstar shows no codes all summer and as soon as the temps drop below 50 the codes start coming up every few days. i turn of the check engine light with my code reader and the car runs fine with the light on or off. i have had the 02 sensors replaced and have tried dry gas thinking there might be condensation in the gas tank. any constructive suggestions are much appreciated. amy, zappfamaol.com

#17 of 91 Re: windstar question [zappfam] by dlarkins

Nov 16, 2006 (8:45 am)

Replying to: zappfam (Nov 05, 2006 9:37 am)
Mine is in the shop now. Mechanic believes it is the upper intake manifold gasket. The lower was replaced by ford twice before my extended warranty ran out. Apparently there is a bullentin out on this very problem. As soon as I know more, I will post.

Messages Page 2 of 10

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