Diagnostic Flow Chart

2005 Ford Taurus SEL, 4D SedanSECTION Diagnostic Flow Chart
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Milan, 2006 Lincoln Zephyr, and 2006 Ford Fusion. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
SPECIAL TOOLS REFERENCE

G04681406Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Vehicle Communication Module (VCM) and Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) software with appropriate hardware, or equivalent scan tool

Prior to carrying out the flow test, the following items should be checked:

  • Know and understand the customer concerns.
  • Check the fluid level and condition.
  • Verify the concern by operating the vehicle.
  • Check for non-factory-installed items and verify correct installation.
  • Check the shift linkage adjustments.
  • Check TSBs and OASIS messages for vehicle concerns.
  • Carry out quick test both KOER and KOEO.
  • Record all codes.
  • Verify that the vehicle transmission control module (TCM) is at the latest calibration release level.
DIAGNOSTIC FLOW CHART

Test Result Action
1) Were any diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) recorded? Yes
  • REPAIR all hard DTCs. FOLLOW the pinpoint tests. REFER to the INTRODUCTION - GASOLINE article, then GO to Step 2.
No
2) Are any continuous test memory codes present? Yes
  • CLEAR codes and CARRY OUT the drive cycle test.
No
  • GO to Step 4.
3) Did the continuous test memory codes reappear? Yes
  • REPAIR all continuous test memory codes. FOLLOW the pinpoint tests. REFER to the INTRODUCTION - GASOLINE article, then GO to Step 4.
No
  • GO to Step 4.
4) Is the concern repaired? Yes
  • CARRY OUT the final quick test to verify that no DTCs are present. CLEAR memory codes.
No
5) Was the transmission concern corrected when the scan tool was installed? Yes
  • REFER to the INTRODUCTION - GASOLINE article and use the scan tool to diagnose cause of concern in the processor, vehicle harness or external inputs (sensors or switches).
No
  • REFER to the hydraulic and mechanical routine to diagnose the concern, then GO to Step 6.
6) Is the concern repaired? Yes
  • CARRY OUT the final quick test to verify that no DTCs are present. CLEAR memory codes.
No
  • Concern should have been repaired. GO back through the diagnostic flow chart and REVIEW other components that may have contributed to the concern. CHECK and DIAGNOSE those components. GET assistance from other sources.
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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.