Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
How To Use System Tests
2003 Ford Windstar BaseSECTION How To Use System Tests
- Ensure all non-EEC related faults found while performing basic diagnostic procedures in appropriate BASIC DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES article have been corrected. Follow each test step in order until fault is found. DO NOT replace any part unless directed to do so. When more than one code is retrieved, start with first code displayed.
- System tests ensure electrical circuits are okay before sensors or other components are replaced. Always test circuits for continuity between sensor and PCM. Test all circuits for short to power, opens or short to ground. Voltage Reference (VREF) and Voltage Power (VPWR) circuits should be tested with ignition switch in ON position or as specified in SYSTEM TESTS.
- If measuring voltage or resistance at PCM and a breakout box is not available, always backprobe PCM harness connector. See PCM CONNECTOR IDENTIFICATION . DO NOT connect any test light unless specified in testing procedure. All measurements are made by probing rear of connector (wiring harness side). Isolate both ends of a circuit and turn ignition switch to OFF position when checking for shorts or continuity, unless instructed otherwise.
- Disconnect solenoids and switches from harness before measuring continuity and resistance or applying voltage. After each repair, check all component connections and repeat QUICK TEST .
- An open circuit is defined as a resistance measurement of 5 ohms or more. This specification tolerance may be too high for some items in EEC-V system. If resistance approaches 5 ohms, always clean suspect connector and coat it with protective dielectric silicone grease. A short is defined as a resistance measurement of 10 k/ohms or less to ground, unless stated otherwise in system test.
- If instructed to replace Powertrain Control Module (PCM) after performing a system test, new PCM must be programmed. See PROGRAMMING PCM .
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.