Computer going bad?

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Old 05-05-2010, 01:32 AM
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Computer going bad?

Hello FTE,

Got an 06 F150 5.4 Past couple months it's been running rough and seems sluggish.

Despite no check engine light, I took the truck to an independent shop I've trusted since the beginning of time. They told me the PCM is going bad because of an error reading they showed me on there scanner. The tech tested all the interior 12v sources for power and they all work. Why he did this, I have no idea

Later that day, I took the truck to AZ for a second opinion. They refused to scan my truck because the check engine light wasn't on. Horray for customer service

Driving around town it's fine and gas mileage is around 15 consistently. 17ish highway. When I put my foot into it, especially if it's been awhile since last time I floored it, the truck hesitates, spits, jerks and no power whatsoever. If I let off and mat it again, all the power in the world.

My apologies for being long winded, figure you should know the details. Thanks in advance!
 
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Old 05-09-2010, 12:12 AM
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Originally Posted by AspenF150
Hello FTE,

Got an 06 F150 5.4 Past couple months it's been running rough and seems sluggish.

Despite no check engine light, I took the truck to an independent shop I've trusted since the beginning of time. They told me the PCM is going bad because of an error reading they showed me on there scanner. The tech tested all the interior 12v sources for power and they all work. Why he did this, I have no idea

Later that day, I took the truck to AZ for a second opinion. They refused to scan my truck because the check engine light wasn't on. Horray for customer service

Driving around town it's fine and gas mileage is around 15 consistently. 17ish highway. When I put my foot into it, especially if it's been awhile since last time I floored it, the truck hesitates, spits, jerks and no power whatsoever. If I let off and mat it again, all the power in the world.

My apologies for being long winded, figure you should know the details. Thanks in advance!
How many miles are on your truck? How many on the sparkplugs?
If you know someone that has the same truck with the same equipment see if you can borrow their ECM for a comparison.
 
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Old 05-10-2010, 10:12 AM
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Coils???

It sounds like coils are dropping out. My 03 Expedition was doing the same thing. The first time the check engine light came on but the other 3 times the light never came on. Now my 04 F-250 is doing the exact same thing your 150 is!! I think I am going to have all of the coils replaced since it has 160K on it. I already had the plugs replaced. If you have'nt had the plugs replaced and your over 75-80K I recommend it.
Hope this helps!
 
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Old 05-10-2010, 03:06 PM
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Originally Posted by Moto Mel
How many miles are on your truck? How many on the sparkplugs?
If you know someone that has the same truck with the same equipment see if you can borrow their ECM for a comparison.
Truck has 41K miles on it. Never touched the sparkplugs.

Madmatt65 - Thank you for your reply. If you happen to replace all your coils before I do, please let me know your results. That's pretty much the only other thing I can think of if it's not the computer.
 
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Old 05-11-2010, 07:20 AM
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One thing you may want to look at is your battery. I've seen low voltage problems and charging problems cause all kinds of weird driveability probs. If the battery has a bad cell it can still start the truck but cause probs with the ECM.
You still have pretty low miles so I would'nt think spark plugs.

My wifes Expedition seemed like it ATE coils!! I got it at 37000 miles and it went through 4 coils till she wrecked it at 85000 miles. (RIP 03 Expedition Eddie Bauer)

I think I am going to try the Granetelli Street performance coils. They sell all 8 for I think $240.00. I'll let you know as soon as I get them installed in my 250.
 
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Old 05-11-2010, 10:57 AM
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At your present mileage I also do not believe you need new plugs and as Madmatt65 says, your problem may be charging system related. Check, clean and tighten your battery cables first. Then, using a volt meter check the alternator's output, it should be 13.5 to 14.+ volts DC. After that check all of the ground straps on or near the engine for tightness and look for any corrosion. The straps should be easy to locate as the bolt heads securing them to the body are usually painted green.
Let us know what you find and or fix.
 
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