I drive a 2004 Ford Ranger, which I’ve had for the life of the truck. For a few years, I’ve had the CEL on more often than not, usually for codes related to oxygen sensors and cat converter.
I’ve taken the truck to a couple of shops and had O2 sensors replaced (repeatedly), but the CEL has come back on within a few days. I’m not at all experienced with auto-work, but I’ve been trying to pick up some new skills (in the interest of not going broke). So, aside from the shops doing their work, I’ve personally replaced a couple of O2 sensors, one catalytic converter, fuel filter, plugs, etc. Between going to the pros & doing work myself, I’ve spent a lot of money trying to keep my beloved Ranger running. Still, that CEL has persisted.
Somewhat recently, I’ve suspected (feared) that I need to replace the fuel pump, and I’ve been trying to work up the courage/knowledge to do that myself. HOWEVER, about a month ago the truck would not start; I replaced the fuel-pump relay just and got it to the shop where they replaced yet another O2 sensor (this one was under warranty from the last time they’d replaced it).
Now, a month later with a new fuel-pump relay, the CEL has stayed off. I’ve checked with my code-reader and I’m still getting a “pending p0430,” but otherwise this is the longest I’ve gone without that CEL coming on.
So, I’m wondering: could a faulty fuel-pump relay have caused multiple O2 sensors to fail? Was that the problem all along? AND, at this point, should I still plan on replacing the fuel pump itself?
Sorry for the lengthy post, and if these are dumb questions. Just hoping to get opinions from folks more experienced than I am.
Thanks!