Hi guys,

I have a possible PCM fault on my 2012 Ford C-max 1.6 diesel, can anyone advise me? 

Bought the car about 6 weeks ago and I was driving a long the motorway and the car went into limp mode stating 'Engine malfunction, service now' and the car ground to a halt. It started again but with the engine warning light coming on - next day it did it again but 3 times... took it to the garage and got the codes (see attached) the mechanic said that the codes that we're being brought up seem like they have nothing to do with the engine itself but the wiring! And there's a miscommunication somewhere and if that was the case then the PCM would have to be replaced...could anyone tell me from the photos of the codes, does that seem like an accurate assessment? Or would something else need to done? 

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/14zIBKvBPWOwISEKnZDkMGXl0l-ipP0_R

(It does say about the ABS on the codes, but no ABS light comes up on the dash?)

Any information would be greatly appreciated. 

Many thanks, 

Stu.

Your file is not on share, so unable to see the codes.

Try now...

Thank you 👍🏻

Just to make it easy for everyone, here are your photos:

That's a lot of confusing DTC's.

You real need to use FORScan and get a list of the true Ford specific codes.

With as many communication errors that you have I would suspect the instrument cluster. Clear all the codes and see what comes back. Then give the instrument cluster a good thump on the top with your hand and see if any of them change.

Using a generic code reader on a problem like this could very well lead you to many "red herrings"

As said above, communication errors can, I think, imply multiple issues including wiring issues (likely but seems too early however must be checked) the ECU itself (which modules have faults to narrow down any CAN faults)
With all due respect, the photos appear to show quite a high level diagnostic tool?
That should give an indication of the affected modules then access to wiring diagrams to try to see where the network has/may have failed.
As the PCM (engine ECU) was, on our C-MAX located under the passenger wheel arch, there are possible wirig and moisture issues there.
I don't like "just replace the ECU" without thorough diagnosis isn't good (and they can be tested/repaired/reprogrammed)

I suggest (it's becoming my mantra) that, yes, do your own work with a good lead & Forscan which is a very cheap and valuable resource.

Then, if you can't fix it yourself, find an auto electrician that can diagnose it before firing the parts cannon.

AND, amazingly, I'd recommend (purely on his videos and fault finding ethos:
https://intelligentauto.co.uk/services/fault-finding/

https://www.youtube.com/@intelligentauto737

But when I checked OP, unlike @unofix wasn't close to Team Valley Gateshead!

12 minutes ago, Shearers said:

wasn't close to Team Valley Gateshead!

Yes the T.V.T.E. is just 11 miles from me, and one day they might even just get the road works finished 🤣

This one looks very relevant? (or not):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L8EDCVKkmEk

You may not have Haldex but the principles are clear?

20 hours ago, unofix said:

That's a lot of confusing DTC's.

You real need to use FORScan and get a list of the true Ford specific codes.

With as many communication errors that you have I would suspect the instrument cluster. Clear all the codes and see what comes back. Then give the instrument cluster a good thump on the top with your hand and see if any of them change.

Using a generic code reader on a problem like this could very well lead you to many "red herrings"

Couple of questions, can I get a hold of For scan or is it only specific mechanic thing? Also, where would the instrument cluster be located? 

19 hours ago, Shearers said:

As said above, communication errors can, I think, imply multiple issues including wiring issues (likely but seems too early however must be checked) the ECU itself (which modules have faults to narrow down any CAN faults)
With all due respect, the photos appear to show quite a high level diagnostic tool?
That should give an indication of the affected modules then access to wiring diagrams to try to see where the network has/may have failed.
As the PCM (engine ECU) was, on our C-MAX located under the passenger wheel arch, there are possible wirig and moisture issues there.
I don't like "just replace the ECU" without thorough diagnosis isn't good (and they can be tested/repaired/reprogrammed)

I suggest (it's becoming my mantra) that, yes, do your own work with a good lead & Forscan which is a very cheap and valuable resource.

Then, if you can't fix it yourself, find an auto electrician that can diagnose it before firing the parts cannon.

AND, amazingly, I'd recommend (purely on his videos and fault finding ethos:
https://intelligentauto.co.uk/services/fault-finding/

https://www.youtube.com/@intelligentauto737

But when I checked OP, unlike @unofix wasn't close to Team Valley Gateshead!

Thanks for your message, I've looked at the YouTube videos and yes fixing it would be great, as long as it's not too expensive...I might see if I can find someone near me who can have a look at the codes and actually find the fault ...thank you 👍🏻

1 hour ago, StuartWattCMax said:

Couple of questions, can I get a hold of For scan

FORScan. The windows version is free, but you may need to buy the 2 year licence £12 depending on if you plan on doing programming.

On 4/7/2024 at 8:59 PM, unofix said:

FORScan (for use with Windows Laptop) : https://forscan.org/download.html

It's what many Ford owners use including some Ford technicians.

vLinker FS, cable for laptop: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Vgate-vLinker-Adapter-FORScan-MS-CAN/dp/B0952P4MLP

vLinker FD, for android phone: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Vgate-Bluetooth-vLinker-Scanner-Diagnostic/dp/B08H82WC8L

vLinker FD+, for iPhone: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Vgate-Bluetooth-vLinker-Scanner-Diagnostic/dp/B08H8JHWP2

 

Search Tag:   FORScan123

 

1 hour ago, StuartWattCMax said:

Also, where would the instrument cluster be located? 

Instrument Cluster = Speedo, Rev Counter, Fuel and Temperature gauges. Often referred to as the "dashboard"

3 hours ago, StuartWattCMax said:

.I might see if I can find someone near me who can have a look at the codes and actually find the fault

It's not just the codes - they can be misleading IMHO.
Without any disrespect to the garage that did the initial code scan, it seems to me that they may be out of their depth i.e. unable to use the equipment/other equipment to diagnose your fault so looking for a skilled auto electrician in your area, as you say would be good - can they recommend anyone so you can see if you are confident in them? (word of mouth recommendation or other would help)
Expect diagnosis to be £70+(I really have no idea)/hr for initial assessment (or ask for a pricing structure)

I'd not let anyone fit expensive parts without a clear diagnostic determination being fully explained (Intelligent Auto appear to offer to refund the price of any parts fitted in error which I'd expect?)

The only other alternative is to buy a lead (As recommended above I have:
https://www.vgatemall.com/products-detail/i-19/) can get from Amazon as said)
Then install Forscan, clear the codes (no need for licence) after recording them. Then use @unofixsuggestion of the Bang Test and see if this narrows down the fault so you can talk to any specialist you consult?