I have a 2005 Mercury, Montego. I just had it into the dealer because my AWD malfunction and traction control lights are on. The dealer says I must replace the oil pressure/temperature sensor. After a nice price tag the mechanic tells me that the sensor didn’t take care of the problem. They then tell me that there is a bulletin (TSB) for this car that states, install a new active on-demand oil pump. If that doesn’t work install a differential electronic module. So in other words they just keep pulling parts out at my expense. And it stil sounds like that might not even work.
It sure seems like there should be a way to test some of the parts to determine whether or not things are working. Labor is relatively cheap compared to the parts cost.
If neither the AWD or the traction control devices work, can it cause damage to this vehicle?
Thanks
If the dealer diagnosed the problem as the sensor, and replaced it, and it didn’t fix the problem, I’d say NO PAY!! Ask for a copy of the TSB. Often they are accompanied by secret extended warranties from the manufacturer. Ford might pick up some of the cost. You may have to go the the regional Ford customer service center for help.
ALSO…I would be suspicious of the dealer, sounds like they are not very good. May be worth trying a different dealer.
I essentially have the same issue with my 2006 Ford Frankenstein, I mean Freestyle.
I only have the traction control light on - no AWD error. And Ford itself has issue no clear statements about fixes. It’s exactly as you have stated. They have a list of hierarchical parts that they will go right up the line replacing until it is fixed. What’s funnier - is each part is within the other part. So if you replace the sensor kit and that doesn’t work, then they tell you to replace the DEM which contains the sensor kit. It goes on and on. I’ve had this problem for months, and have been researching like crazy. No fix in sight.
These AWD systems have become so complex they are essentially non-repairable.
At some point, the entire constellation of warning lights gets covered with black tape…
I concur. Only a few makers like Subaru and Audi make very simple but excellent and reliable mechanical AWD based systems since the cars were designed at the start to be AWD.
The balance of AWD systems are always an add-on to FWD and typically very complicated, high usages of computer sensors, and not that effective.