Diagnostic Aids

1991 Mercury Tracer Base, 4D Sedan, AutomaticSECTION Diagnostic Aids
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1994 Mercury Topaz, 1994 Mercury Sable, 1994 Ford Tempo, and 1994 Ford Taurus. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Circuits are identified in all capital letters (acronyms). For example, Profile Ignition Pickup is identified as PIP. Manufacturer's breakout box overlay test terminals are identified by a "J" prefix. For example, J31 (PIP). The J31 indicates that the measurement is to be taken at terminal No. 31 at the breakout box. The (PIP) indicates that the Profile Ignition Pickup circuit is being checked.

When the letter "I" follows the circuit identification, it implies that the measurement is being taken at the ICM. For example, J31 (PIP I). The (PIP I) implies that the measurement is of the PIP circuit at the ICM.

When the letter "S" follows the circuit identification, it implies that the measurement is being taken at the Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP). For example, J32 (CKP+ S). The (CKP+ S) implies that the measurement is of the CKP sensor positive circuit at the CKP sensor. When the letter "C" follows the circuit identification, it implies that the measurement is being taken at the coil. For example, J10 (C3C). The (C3C) implies that the measurement is of the C3 circuit at the coil pack.

The following information should also be noted during testing:

  • When checking a wiring harness, perform both a visual inspection and a continuity test. Inspect terminal connector pins for damage, bending, spreading and corrosion when directed to remove a connector.
  • Spark timing adjustments are not possible. Timing is controlled by ICM with input from PCM.
  • When checking voltage drop to GROUND, circuit must have a voltage drop of less than one volt.
  • Battery voltage (VBAT) is any voltage reading within 2 volts of actual battery voltage.
  • EEC-IV Breakout Box (T83L-50-EEC-IV) connected to EI diagnostic cable is referred to as breakout box or EI breakout box. If a second breakout box is connected to PCM wiring harness connector, it will be referred to as second or PCM breakout box. This setup allows testing of EI components and wiring harness circuits.
NOTE: A 12-volt incandescent (high voltage) test light should not be used to test circuit signals. It will load circuit and may cause incorrect measurements or faulty EI/PCM operation (engine stall).
FLEX FUEL EI PINPOINT TEST INDEX

Result Pinpoint Test & Step
No Start
No Codes A1
PASS Code 111 A1
Code 212 Or 226 (IDM Signal At PCM Fault) A1
Code 211 (PIP Signal At PCM Fault) A1
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) On During Cranking A1
Engine Runs
Code 212 Or 226 (IDM Signal Fault At PCM) B1
Code 213 (SPOUT Circuit Fault) C1
Code 215, 216, 217 And/Or 232 (Coil 1, 2 Or 3 Fault) D1
Lack Of Power Or Poor Fuel Economy C1
Engine Miss (1)
Engine Intermittent Driveability Complaint (2)
(1) See PINPOINT TEST F under EI SYSTEM (LOW DATA RATE) (3.0L SHO).
(2) See To PINPOINT TEST G under EI SYSTEM (LOW DATA RATE) (3.0L SHO).
NOTE: Steps in pinpoint tests are designed to correct one ignition failure at a time. When a component is replaced or service is completed, remove all test equipment. Reconnect all components, and perform QUICK TEST. Refer to TESTS W/CODES - EEC-IV (3.0L) article in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE section.
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:

  • 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.