Pinpoint Test C: Code 213 Or Lack Of Power Or Poor Fuel

1991 Mercury Tracer Base, 4D Sedan, AutomaticSECTION Pinpoint Test C: Code 213 Or Lack Of Power Or Poor Fuel
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1994 Mercury Tracer and 1994 Ford Escort. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

ECONOMY

  1. Check Base Ignition Timing  Turn ignition off. Install diagnostic cable to breakout box and ICM. DO NOT connect CKP sensor tee. Use EI (High Data Rate) 4 overlay on breakout box. Connect diagnostic cable negative and positive leads to battery. Set diagnostic cable box switch to 4/6 CYLINDER position. Connect timing light (must be EI compatible). Start engine, and allow to idle. Ensure idle is correct. If timing is 8-12 degrees BTDC when diagnostic cable SPOUT button is pushed, go to next step. If timing is not 8-12 degrees, go to step 8).
  2. Check For Spark Angle Advance  If engine timing is more than 15 degrees BTDC when diagnostic cable SPOUT button is released, ignition system is okay. refer to TESTS W/O CODES - EEC-IV (1.9L) article in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE section for further driveability symptom diagnosis. If timing is not as specified, go to next step.
  3. Check SPOUT At ICM  Turn ignition off. Set DVOM on AC voltage scale. Start engine and measure voltage between J21 (diagnostic cable SPOUT DETECTOR) and J7 (B-) at breakout box. If AC voltage is more than 5 volts, replace ICM. If AC voltage is 5 volts or less, go to next step.
  4. Check SPOUT For Short In ICM  Turn ignition off. Push and hold down diagnostic cable SPOUT button at diagnostic cable. This opens SPOUT circuit to ICM. Start engine and measure voltage between J21 (diagnostic cable SPOUT DETECTOR) and J7 (B-) at breakout box. If AC voltage is more than 5 volts, replace ICM. If AC voltage is 5 volts or less, go to next step.
  5. Check SPOUT For Short To Power In Harness  Turn ignition off. Disconnect PCM. Disconnect ICM from diagnostic cable module tee. Leave diagnostic cable connected to wiring harness connector. Set DVOM on DC voltage scale. Turn ignition on. Measure voltage between J45 (SPOUT E) and J7 (B-) at breakout box. If DC voltage is less than 0.5 volt, go to next step. If DC voltage is 0.5 volt or more, repair SPOUT circuit for a short to power.
  6. Check SPOUT For Short To Ground In Harness  Turn ignition off. Ensure PCM and ICM are disconnected. Set DVOM on ohm scale. Disconnect diagnostic cable positive lead to battery. Measure resistance between J45 (SPOUT I) and J7 (B-) at breakout box. If resistance is more than 10,000 ohms, go to next step. If resistance is 10,000 ohms or less, repair SPOUT circuit short to ground.
  7. Check SPOUT Continuity To ICM  With ignition off, ensure PCM and ICM are disconnected. Install a second breakout box to PCM harness connector. Measure resistance between J45 (SPOUT I) at breakout box and terminal No. 36 at PCM breakout box. If resistance is less than 5 ohms, replace PCM. If resistance is 5 ohms or more, repair SPOUT open circuit.
  8. Inspect CKP Sensor/Trigger Wheel  If CKP sensor or trigger wheel is damaged, loose or misaligned, replace or repair components as necessary. If trigger wheel and CKP sensor are not damaged or loose, replace ICM.
RENDER: 1.0x

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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.