1997 Ford Probe Base, AutomaticFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Test L: No Response From Powertrain Control Module (Pcm)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1997 Lincoln Mark VIII. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Ensure ignition switch is in OFF position. Disconnect 16-pin harness connector C248. Harness connector C248 is located below driver's side of instrument panel, to the left of steering column. See Figure .
  2. Using ohmmeter, check resistance between terminal No. 2 (Tan/Orange wire) on DLC and terminal No. 16 (Tan/Orange wire) on female side of harness connector C248. See Figure . Note resistance and go to next step.
  3. Using ohmmeter, check resistance between terminal No. 10 (Pink/Light Blue wire) on DLC and terminal No. 15 (Pink/Light Blue wire) on female side of harness connector C248. See Figure . Note resistance and go to next step.
  4. If resistance is 5 ohms or less on both circuits, go to next step. If resistance is more than 5 ohms on any circuit, repair open circuit on Tan/Orange wire or Pink/Light Blue wire between DLC and harness connector C248. Repeat TEST AΒ  .
  5. Turn ignition switch to OFF position. Disconnect Gray 104-pin connector C291 from Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The PCM is located below driver's side of instrument panel, to the left of steering column. See Figure .
  6. Using ohmmeter, check resistance between terminal No. 16 (Tan/Orange wire) on male side of harness connector C248 and terminal No. 16 (Tan/Orange wire) on connector C291. See Fig 1 . Note resistance and go to next step.
  7. Using ohmmeter, check resistance between terminal No. 15 (Pink/Light Blue wire) on male side of harness connector C248 and terminal No. 15 (Pink/Light Blue wire) on connector C291. See Fig 1 . Note resistance and go to next step.
  8. If resistance is 5 ohms or less on both circuits, go to next step. If resistance is more than 5 ohms on any circuit, repair open circuit on Tan/Orange wire or Pink/Light Blue wire between harness connector C248 and PCM. Repeat TEST AΒ  .
  9. Inspect terminals No. 15 and 16 on connector C291 for damage. Also inspect corresponding pins on PCM for damage. If terminals on connector C291 and pins on PCM are okay, replace PCM. Repeat TEST AΒ  . If terminals on connector C291 or pins on PCM are damaged, repair as needed. Repeat TEST AΒ  .
Fig 1: Checking Resistance Between Harness Connector C248 & Connector C291
G96B29471Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
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Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.

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