I thought I'd throw this out to newer Ford truck owners since there is no Freestar Forum. I have an 05 Freestar with no instrumentation and no error codes. None of the gauges work and most of the warning lights are lit when the truck is running. No A/C and no ABS while driving and turn signals work, but do not display on the dash. It appears that two separate code readers are not acknowledging the computor. The battery and alternator check out good and there is no drain on the battery when ign switch is off. Could this be the PCM?? Any help would be appreciated.

 

Not a bit familiar with Freestars, but I can give a few general thoughts -- worth every penny that you're paying for them .

There is probably nothing wrong with the PCM -- it drives OK I assume, and that's the PCM's job. From the symptoms you've given, it wouldn't be showing codes if you could read them.

There IS a second computer in a lot of vehicles(not sure about Fords), it's called the Body Control Computer. Older Rangers had something called the GEM ( General Electronic Module). Something like that COULD be causing issues, but it would probably take a specialist to be sure.

That leaves you with
- wiring
- grounds
- fuses
-instrument panel

I suggest that you get a manual (Haynes or whatever) and try to check out the wiring and fuses. Your local library may have one. They might also have access to AllData DIY online which is somewhat more informative usually.

You should also look over your grounding situation. Corroded grounds can cause a lot of nasty problems. Just for kicks, you might try hooking a jumper cable from the battery negative to a ground inside the cab. The metal ring around the cigarette lighter ( if you have one ) should work. If anything changes, it's worth further investigation. (You won't hurt anything hooking ground to ground -- just be sure that's the case).

A manual may give you some hints about checking out your instrument panel.

Good Luck,

hj

 

You have several moduals on this vehicle . You need a proper scan tool to find your issue . You would be amazed at the amount of computers /moduals on cars today . It could be as simple as a ICP Mod or a loose ground .

 

Cluster failures were fairly common on the Freestars, so statistically that is most likely where your concern is based on your description of the problem.

As stated above, the cluster has little to do with the PCM's operation.

What "computer" are you having difficulty connecting with? There are many on your vehicle.

In any case, if it is a failed cluster it needs to be programmed by the dealer when it is replaced, so you are probably better off just taking it there as they have the equipment and experience to take care of this relatively easy.

 

The issue wound up being the ABS module that is housed under the truck. Once the module was disconnected, the dash panel started working properly. A replacement module from a junk yard and a program flash was the fix for the ultimate problem of having a fried module. Several weeks later and the truck is still running fine with no instrument issues. Thanks for all of the advice.

 

Glad you got it fixed ! Thanks for posting your fix !