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Last updated on October 31st, 2024 at 01:31 pm

The power control module (PCM) is a vital aspect of a vehicle’s operation mechanism as it coordinates numerous components and functions. Hence, 2005 Ford Escape PCM problems are likely to cause substantial breakdowns in most of your car’s performances. Determining what is causing problems in your Ford Escape’s PCM is vital in ensuring that it does not trigger other costly damages. In this article, we will be looking at some of the causes of PCM 2005 Ford Escape problems, symptoms, automatic transmissions failures and Ford Escape PCM repairs.

Symptoms of 2005 Ford Escape PCM Failure

The PCM is the brain of your vehicle as it runs numerous operations. There are numerous signs that you can use to determine whether your Ford Escape PCM has issues, as articulated below:

Your Car Won’t Start or Has a Rough Start

If your car does not start or requires several attempts to start, your control module PCM probably has some complications. Several factors in a 2005 Ford Escape PCM may contribute to starting problems, such as improper engine timing, improper balance of fuel to air ratio, and short in wiring harness. Such problems are dangerous as your car may fail to start when in undesirable locations. Nonetheless, you need to check whether other ignition system components, such as the ignition coil and spark plug, are functioning normally. 

Your ‘Check Engine’ Light Is on

Complications of the PCM also affect the engine’s operations. This is because it tampers with the operations of the sensors that fail to deliver good performances. You can take care of such issues by hiring a professional to read your engine codes and ensure that everything is in the right state. You should inspect your car early as most states do not permit entrance if the check engine light is on. 

Loss of Gas Mileage

The PCM is involved in controlling the fuel to air ratio and shifting of gears. Any alterations in the normal operation of such functions reciprocate a great haul in your gas mileage. Although other reasons, such as poorly inflated tires and damaged filters, can affect your gas mileage, you need to check whether the 2005 Ford Escape powertrain control module PCM has any issues.

Rough Running by the Engine

In case you note that the engine is stuttering, there may be a serious mechanical issue caused by a failed engine computer system. There are numerous reasons that may cause your engine to run rough, but engine timing is the most common cause. The PCM has substantial effects on effective engine timing. 

Causes of PCM Issues in 2005 Ford Escape

There are numerous causes that may contribute to the damage to your PCM. Understanding such causes will help the Escape owner familiarize themselves with the root cause of the issue and address it with the most effective plan. Below are some of the main causes of PCM problems:

Voltage Overloads

Overloads are mainly caused by shorts in your vehicle’s solenoid or actuator circuit and result in downgraded performances of your engine. Such issues arise when your PCM is faulty, and testing is essential in identifying the problem. However, you should also note that other electric issues that led to problems in the PCM should be addressed first to ensure that you combat the problem completely. This is because a new PCM will fail when other existing problems have not been attended to. 

Environmental Factors

Numerous weather and environmental factors may influence the performance of your 2005 Ford Escape’s PCM. This is because the PCM has sensitive elements that are prone to damage. First, you should note that water is one of the main destructive agents to your car’s PCM. This is because contact with water can cause the engine computer to be irreparable. Other factors that affect the normal operation of the PCM include thermal stress and excessive vibrations.  

How To Test a PCM?

An engine control module works in conjunction with the ECM to ensure that your engine has normal functioning. However, the PCM has numerous roles and requires frequent testing to ensure that your car has top-notch performances. When testing whether your PCM has any complications, you need the following tools:

• Multimeter
• Flashlight
• A screwdriver
• A code scanner
• A new PCM if replacement will be required

After garnering the above tools, the following steps will guide you when testing your PCM power control module:

• A visual checkup

Before conducting any activities, you should have a visual inspection to check on factors such as loose wires. Also, check whether the PCM is connected to the battery and if there is no rust on the battery wiring. If there are any loose wires, reconnect them before moving on to the next step. 

• Check the battery

Use the multimeter to check whether the battery is fully charged. You should record a reading of 12.6 volts when the engine is off and 13.7 when running. In case the figures are below that, recharge the battery before proceeding with further testing. This is vital as low voltage may cause complications such as failure of certain censors, which channels problems to the PCM. 

• Scan the code

After ensuring that the battery has the right charge and every connection is intact, use the OBD or OBD ll code scanner to check whether there is any trouble code in the PCM. Scanning the code helps in unleashing numerous electrical and mechanical issues. It also helps you identify the systems which are contributing to problems in the powertrain control module PCM. 

• Check the wiring and sensors

This is one of the most critical steps when testing your PCM. You will check whether the sensors are connected to the PCM and all the wires that connect to the PCM. The codes can also help you evaluate and check on the specific system that is causing problems to your PCM. 

Even after performing a visual inspection on the wires, use a multimeter to reconfirm. In addition, do not forget to check the ground wires and connection points as they are some of the main causes of the menace. Then reset the car’s codes and drive for some distance to check whether you have resolved the problem. 

• Replace the PCM

Even after following the above steps, replacing the PCM may be the solution to bringing your 2005 Ford Escape back on the road. However, you need to ensure that the PCM version matches your car’s make and model. Replacing a PCM brings instant improvements in your car’s performance. It is recommended that you work with an auto-electrician or any other professional to prevent encountering any problems during the replacement.

• Engine Computer Replacement Cost

The engine computer is one of the most crucial car components, and the Ford Escape PCM repair cost can be relatively expensive when compared to most car components. However, the cost of replacing the PCM also depends on the type of vehicle. The average cost of replacing the engine computer for most Ford models, such as the Ford Escape and Ford F150, ranges between $300 to $1000. You will also add up the labor costs which are approximately $90 to $120. 

Frequently Asked Questions About The 2005 Ford Escape