Inspection and Verification: Notes

2005 Ford Taurus SEL, 4D SedanSECTION Notes
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mercury Montego, 2005 Ford Freestyle, and 2005 Ford Five Hundred. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Verify the customer concern.
  2. Visually inspect for obvious signs of mechanical or electrical damage.
    VISUAL INSPECTION CHART

    Mechanical Electrical
    • Engine oil level
    • Fuel tank and lines
    • Engine coolant level
    • Washer fluid level
    • Brake fluid level
    • Engine coolant level
    • Smart junction box (SJB) fuse(s):
      • 20 (7.5A) (instrument cluster)
      • 23 (7.5A) (instrument cluster)
      • 7 (7.5A) (instrument cluster)
      • 19 (10A) (anti-lock brake system [ABS] module)
      • 21 (7.5A) (restraint control module [RCM])
    • Bulb(s)
    • Circuitry
    • Instrument cluster
  3. If an obvious cause for an observed or reported concern is found, correct the cause (if possible) before proceeding to the next step.
  4. If the concern is visually evident, connect the diagnostic tool to the data link connector (DLC) and select the vehicle to be tested from the diagnostic tool menu. If the diagnostic tool does not communicate with the vehicle:
    • check that the program card or disc is correctly installed.
    • check the connections to the vehicle.
    • check the ignition switch position.
  5. If the diagnostic tool still does not communicate with the vehicle, refer to the diagnostic tool operating manual.
  6. Carry out the diagnostic tool data link test. If the diagnostic tool responds with:
  7. If the DTCs retrieved are related to the concern, go to the INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) INDEXΒ , the SMART JUNCTION BOX (SJB) DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) INDEXΒ , or the POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (PCM) DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) INDEXΒ .
  8. If no DTCs related to the concern are retrieved, GO to SYMPTOM CHARTΒ .
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When to See a Mechanic

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.