I can honestly say that my DIY mechanic skills have gone way up since I started watching your vids. You obviously have great skills but what I like the most about you is your attitude... Each time I watch your videos, you make me want to go fix something !.. It shows that you love what you do and this transcend through the screen. Thank you for doing these and taking the time to explain the logic behind each move you do. Hopefully you keep doing them for a long time. Cheers.
Another great video Eric, as an electrical technician in a hospital I have an old saying, "Five minutes with your head, can save an hour with your hands". Think about what it is you are there to repair, digest all the information you have and ask questions. I would say the Verdigris on that relay is the result of that window being left open as a shower of rain came past in the wrong direction and made its way into the A pillar fuse box, corroding that relays pins out. A couple of years ago I did an 11 state tour of the USA and took a trip to the Ford plant in Detroit where I saw the F-150's being assembled, I can tell ya the dash goes in on a gig and two guys secure it up in under two minutes, that fuse-box is already part of the dash and at best they just plug the connectors together before the truck moves along the line, nobody in the plant bent backwards to access it the way you were!! I drive a Ford Mondeo (Ford Fusion in the USA) and the inside fuse-box is under the dash in a similar place, the good ole G-spot is easier to get your fingers on.
@Joe Black Likely they do and also they likely mark up what SMA's charge was to them which I would suppose is the same as any client rate would be. However, SMA has said in the past, he does this because he has a relationship with those shops. At some point, you have to deal with the local turf which is rural and word spreads fast in those conditions.
All future mechanics need to listen to this guy. The fancy tool doesn’t tell you what’s wrong with the car. The fancy tool only tells you what’s being affected by what’s wrong. From there you have to start analyzing the data stream and doing proper troubleshooting. All I can say is I wish I had a mechanic like this where I live. He knows his stuff!
I can relate. My old Astra had "Turbo overboost" codes with limp mode set. I would never have found the issue without my AUTEL MaxiCOM and the live data. The codes alone pointed to the turbo. The live data showed the MAP sensor was stuck low when it should have been changing with revs. New sensor fitted, she revved up beautfully, with the sweet whistly moan of the turbo! Back to life! I love AUTEL products!
Eric, I've watched many of your videos and have quite an admiration of your skills, patience and knowledge (and humor). I've practiced electronics for over for over 60 years, examined dozens (if not hundreds) of relays and of the very strong opinion your relay corrosion was generated by a front pillar/windshield/cowl leak (salt water). Relays don't self destruct in the manner that was shown. Thanks for sharing your knowledge and time with us 'wannbe' shade tree mechanics!
@johnny smit how stupid can u really be I have 3 ford trucks at my house best there is. We have 8 at my job all have 300 400k miles I would be embarrassed to drive a chevy or fiat.
i like your down to earth approach, it a real pleasure to see someone think his way though a problem, rather than relying on a computer to solve the problem Thank you
Eric, I love your sense of curiosity and ability to educate. I've been learning a LOT from your videos. I know this is an old video, but you're removing the rust from the old-school automotive technology classes I took in high school vocational school. Thank you for sharing the experience and logic behind your diagnoses!
This is a classic case of needing to keep it simple. Really cool seeing a diagnostic that isn't running around the vehicle looking at everything at once. Start from the bottom and work your way up. Keep up the great videos!
You are amazing. Your diagnostic skills are great and your delivery is articulate and always takes your audience along as though we are right there with you. May you have great success and become a RUclips sensation!
Sure is fun to go back in time and revisit old videos of yours. Your procedures haven't changed, a bit more complete today perhaps, but still logical and thorough. Don't ever change. Thanks for sharing.
Eric O , you give me more and more inspiration every video I watch. As a DIYer mechanic you have given me some invaluable insight into basic automotive diagnostics. Your good heart and patience transfers into a great teacher. Thanks for sharing your automotive repair knowledge via RUclips and you have a fan for life in me. Keep the videos coming! May GOD continue to bless you and your family as you continue to balance work, family, and making RUclips videos.
This was exactly what my problem was. You are the man! Probably saved me a few hundred dollars by not having to take to the dealership/shop to get it figured out. Thanks a lot! I appreciate it!
Man, I am so thankful for this video. It’s been a hard couple months with truck repairs (including a tranny rebuild) and this video saved me. Bless you and your family. $24 to fix because of you. Thanks a million.
Eric, I have been frustrated with my 2012 3.5L EcoBoost for the last month. It has been intermittently starting after driving for about an hour with multiple stops and restarts. Then turn the key or remote start and get nothing but dash board lights?? But if I lock it up and let it cool down for 10 to 20 minutes then it fires right up. I suspected fuse or relay to the PCM. When I watched you diagnos the 2006 f150, PCM main relay video, I just went to Ford parts and bought a new relay for $7.12 problem solved. Though my relay was located in the engine compartment above the radiator it still controlled the PCM according to my owners manual. Thanks a million. You are a genius 😊
As a home mechanic with four of my own to keep running, I have always wanted to throw down and get a bidirectional tool, but the more I watch these videos the less I want to spend all that cash. You proved once again that a code scanner combined with a test light is many times more than enough to diagnose even the most puzzling problems. Great video. I agree with the comment below about watching you and wanting to go fix something after. I love watching your videos even when nothing is broke down and that says a lot about your talent to teach and motivate, oh and of course to diagnose also. Keep up the good work!
I know this is an old post but sure helped me out today. I had a no-crank, no-start, flashing antitheft light condition on my 2004 Ford F150. In the past I was able to get the truck to start with the "key on-unlock three times, key off-unlock three times, key on" dance but this time it flat would not work. My scanner was telling me the PCM was not responding. I checked the different ground connections and they were all good (cleaned them up anyway). Then I watched this video, ran the same test light tests, and swapped the fog lamp relay into the PCM power slot and BAM! my truck started right up. Thank you so much!
Sorry to have such a late replay. I have seen this same kind of corrosion on a device we use at work to test thermal imagers. We used to use a diluted dishwasher soap as a vacuum leak test chamber as a quality check. There is a power module in this unit that has a connector with spade pins. After several days one of the pins that provided communication would corrode with green crust and cause failure in the mech. These pins werent on the power circuit, however; during the test there was a electrical bias on this line. The problem was that dishwashing detergent has a lot of phosphates that will corrode copper when an electrical bias is applied. We ended up switching to a non-corrosive detect like "snoop" which stopped this from happening. probably similar situation with the relay in this car. Awesome work. I watch you all the time to help me on my vehicles. You do great work.
Nice fix Eric. Checking power,ground, fuses, and relays is always first for me. My grandson watched this with me and said,"Papa,that's what you always tell us when you're helping us with a math problem. Use what you know to find out what you don't know with the information you have". This customer will probably chose you from now on. Best repair videos on youtube as far as I'm concerned.
gmctrk63 That has always helped me with diag work. Lets go find out what we know to help figure out what we don't know :) Lol glad he got it, you sound like a wise teacher.
Even though this video has been up a while, its still awesome when instincts kick in and a "let's start from square one" attitude make a problem like this seem so trivial. Awesome ninja diagnosis skills, Eric!
Thank you for the videos showing your troubleshooting steps and proving you don't always have to keep throwing parts at it until it runs again. I have a 2006 Milan that was doing the same thing with no com/start/etc and it ended up being the fuse for the circuit that the PATS is on. I figured I had a dead PCM. Once I replaced the fuse, it fired up right away after sitting nearly a year because I didn't want to spend much on a 16 year old car with a salvage title.
This one's a winner! While hooking up my trailer lights I saw a spark and the engine quit. I watched your video, replaced one trailer light fuse and swapped the same relay you did and that did the trick! When I heard that beep I was so excited! Thank you!
I enjoyed this one. You seemed a little hesitant or lost in the beginning but once you simplified it, had a plan... you straight up nailed it! Excelente! Me gustó! 👍👍
Just love these diagnostic videos. I taught electronic engine controls for 25 years and was in lock step with your every move. I really miss performing these diagnostics. Keep it up
BOOOM! Just fixed my 2007 F150 5.4 with identical problem. Shop said starter, I said no way. Why can’t I hear my fuel pump if it was just the starter? Towed the truck home, and after 2 days of google and YouTubing search I found your video kind sir. I RAN to the truck to swap relays. Sure enough, Vrooom She instantly fired up. Your video saved me at least $1000 and multiple tows to different mechanics. Soon as I heard that Ford chime in your video I knew you found the culprit. Thank you thank you. Just FYI we had some fairly cold weather recently and I had used my pickup to jump my semi truck. Took an hour on the jumper cables to get her started. Pretty sure I overheated plenty of the electrical system to cause that relay to go bad...
Thank you for this video. It was the same exact problem on my 5.4 Triton. I bought a new battery thinking it was a cranking amps issue and was contemplating a new starter until I saw this video. $18 bucks later, me the wife and the three dogs were taking our Sunday cruise through Key West once again.
Excellent work. You can tell that you care the way you explain and move camera around. I was on the edge of my seat to when that relay was triggered once for a start with your test light...dang that was fun. Subscribing now!!
FYI- Those second gen expeditions and f-150s are notorious for fuse panel problems. There are some relays soldered to the circuit board and one of them overheats, causing damage over time, eventually causing either intermittent fuel pump cutoff or failure altogether.
Mr.O, you are very entertaining and informative. I look to your videos as another time well spent in a classroom, your shop. I look forward to more of your videos that i have not watched and diagnostics I have trouble with. I applaud your expert, basic knowledge on how to approach every situation you encounter. Thank you so much for you being you... and to your back up crew, Mrs O.
Eric the car guy talks about mechanics vs technicians. But I think this is a case where the mechanic wins. A mechanic grabs his "scope on a rope" and works the problem where a technician pulls out a scan tool and throws his hands up when it doesn't tell him what to fix. Good on you Mr. O!
You do things with a scan tool that amaze me. Most technicians use a scan tool like Google for car problem answers. What part should I replace oh crystal ball. You use a scan tool as what it was meant to be...a diagnostic tool! And you make it deliver.
Erick is no Mechanic. He is a Propper Technitian and Diagnostician!!!!!! Erick You the Man!!!!!!!!!! I would love to work with someone like You. Keep it up💪🏻
Just some excellent diagnose work my man! I work in automotive development and frequently get frustrated by our mechanics acting like there's nothing they can do about the simplest of problems. I often dive into engine bays and do the very same stuff you show in these videos. Laptop with all the wiring diagrams and diagnostic software stays closed more often than not - think about the issues, find the most likely cause, test it. 90% of the time works every time.
I know this is old, but I just wanted to say a big THANK YOU for posting this.!! We have an 05 - F150 Lariet with the 5.4. A couple of Months ago, it started stalling, and after a 1/2hr or so, it would fire back up and run fine. Well, over the next few weeks, it would do it randomly, so we started to look into what was happening. The first time it happened when I was around it, I laid under it and jumped the starter, and it fired right up......... The next time, a week or so later it died, I did that again, and it worked, so I replaced the starter... Then, it happened again, and this time I got codes U1900, U1950 and B1352 B1352 code possible causes Faulty Ignition Key-In Switch (Part of the ignition switch) Ignition Key-In Switch harness is open or shorted Ignition Key-In Switch circuit poor electrical connection Faulty Smart Comunication errors. U1900 FORD code possible causes Faulty / intermittent ignition switch connections CAN Bus wiring intermittently open/shorted to power or ground Faulty / intermittent connection at PCM Faulty electrical connections at ABS Control Module Faulty electrical connections at the instrument cluster Poor connections at the trailer brake controller/trailer connector U1950 FORD code possible causes Faulty / intermittent ignition switch connections CAN Bus wiring intermittently open/shorted to power or ground Faulty / intermittent connection at PCM Faulty electrical connections at ABS Control Module Faulty electrical connections at the instrument cluster Poor connections at the trailer brake But at this time, I could connect to it with my scanner obviously. So, we replaced the Ignition switch, the Oil sensor, and both VCT valves, and tested it again. It stalled on the way home. Only this last time, it would not let me connect to the OBD2 port....... That was a new problem, and also, this time it showed errors on the dash about a communication error, and a charging system error. Well, it cranked very fast, the battery was fully charged from the alternator, and when running it was at 14.1v, so I did not trust that one, but the code U1900 led me to search YT for a solution, and this is the very first video I found, and watched. So, I told my bud, who had the truck, to replace that same relay. He swapped the one from the fog lights and boom, the truck has not stalled once and it's been driving quite a bit now. There was no corrision on our relay, and just like this video, it still worked. It's working fine for the fog lights now. It has to be a connection issue in enginneering with the relays. I feel bad for those who have not found this video, and are still chasing this problem around. My next move was to replace the FPDM, but this vid saved me from having to do that. THANK YOU! I greatly appreciate it! A Ford guy.....
Holy ish! Popped the cover to check fuses and that fuse was just a danglin! Started rite up. It died on me leaving a job at 6am in the hood but it fired right up. So glad it happened at home and was able to find your video!!
Great job I was excited when it started. Please continue to be the best mechanic I've seen on RUclips your quality and attention to doing the best job is amazing its a shame those other shops didn't do the say due diligence and fix the car. Keep the videos coming Eric!!!!!
Eric I live in American Samoa your approach to diagnostics has helped me go back to the basics to start instead of jumping all over the place. Thanks for this great lesson alofa atu wb
Thanks Eric.... I've been really struggling this winter with my stubborn 04 F150 Triton 3V. First broke a timing guide ...barely limped it a few miles home.....fixed the timing stuff did lash adjusters checked rollers...new oil pump and PS pump that was leaking. It ran ok but stalled when hot....got a code for engine temp sensor....also found vacuum leaks at the intake so I pulled that all apart....did plugs while it was apart and checked the knock sensors.....took my time and was real careful. But then crank but no start.....messed with it a bit the no crank no start ! By now I'm way out of my league....gauges were acting crazy....had a weird clicking..... Found your vid this morning and tried swapping the relays.....started immediatly ! That R02 relay is for fog lights.....I dont even have any ! Thank you so much......I dont have any more $$$$$ to pour into this truk but for now I really need it.
We energize the Control Side of the Relay- and at the same time check for (0) ohms on the Load side. This is the best way to check the Relay. I learned this from ASE Master Jason Varnum.
I know this is an old video, but PLEASE don't ever apologize for your camera work Eric. Your job comes first, you spend alot of time setting up the camera for perfect shots for us viewers, and take the time to thoroughly explain what you are doing step by step. If somebody has the nerve to complain about a shaky video, or out of focus video, well they don't need to watch because they are inconsiderate pricks. So please never apologize, thank you for all you do for us viewers.
This saved my ass!!! I was just about to rip out the starter and go to town before I luckily stumbled on this video. Thank you so much for sharing your experience and knowledge with us!!!
just started to watch your vids.......love them!!!!....your very high skill level and your verbal thinking method and camera work is superior....thanks.
Back in the 70s, my dad used to be a mechanic at a dealership in Chicago, after work he would go to Dumpys Rucksack or Scrappy McDoogals for tater tots
Very honest and trustworthy. I have a 2006 F150 XLT 5.4 TRITON and love this truck. I have 210 thousand miles and take very good care of it. I've had people mistaken with my truck problems. This Mr. Eric O. does a very great job and I'm not saying he is all knowing, no one is but God. I wish he were here and I'd have him work on my truck. Enjoyed watching him.
Great job. I wouldn't have had a clue as to where to start. I wonder how many shops would have just diagnosed a bad pcm and replaced that without simple diagnostics. In this case, they'd still have a no crank no start.
Jeffrey Cardimen Please help I just replaced body wiring harness and that whole pcm that you just replaced fuse. Mine is a 2013. I try to start and a clicking noise in pcm no fuel pump coming on just clicks. Does it need re programmed from dealer ? Or could it be relay or fuse like yours but it’s brand new from dealership. Please advise thanks
I really like these diagnosis videos best, and it just struck me that now I can go back a few years for a repeat watch. I remember this truck, but didn't remember the solution to the mystery. Two things aren't mysteries; first, the engineers who put fuse boxes under the dash are stupid, and second, Eric is the man.
i have to disagree if you refering to ford being stupid for putting the box in a hard to reach spot,sure its harder to get too but the benefits of not having your fuse box exposed to the elements make it a better choice then engine bay.
@@pigeonsil240sx This is a part of a more general complaint with car makers who make cars today seemingly with little consideration for maintenance and repair. Twenty computer modules, inaccessible spark plugs, water pumps inside the block, and fuse panels under the dash. Put the panel on the side of the dash. Things are too hard to work on because the mechanicals are stuffed inside the styling. Back in the day changing a water pump was fast and easy; blower motor, simple as pie. Try changing a blower motor now. First, it will take two hours to sort through the computers to verify the fault, then five more hours to disassemble the whole dash. Cars are better, and more reliable now, probably designed to last for six trouble free years. But then they want you to buy a new car. Many folks like me have traded in cars because the cost of repair didn't warrant keeping it.
I’m a 50 year old woman. My truck is doing exactly this the Mechanic men have made me buy a new battery, alternator and starter. I’m going to Ford to get a PCM power relay and a fuse puller and try this fix my self. Your video was very GREAT wish me luck. I will edit and let you know if that was my problem 🙏🏽😊🤔
Absolutely despicable! A mechanic that finds and fixes problems quickly. Unheard of. Nice catch Eric, every now and then you get right to the root of the problem surprising even your self. Nice to see an honest mechanic pop up on the radar every now and then. Just curious, how many vehicles towed in from other shops become regular customers? Cheers!
As a previous person commented there are mechanics and then they are Parts changers Eric not normally are you a great mechanic here when the few I see online that no electrical problems and sir I commend you for it , I have yet to see your videos where you do not fix electrical problem this is one of the reasons I keep watching your videos especially when you are fixing electrical problems wish me like so many others we are scared shitless on electronics problems on modern Cars & Trucks LIKE this one you fixed here .
Hey man thanks for this video. Truck wouldn't start 20 minutes ago. Checked those relay switches in the fuse box by the passenger door.Just took them out and put them back in and it starts right up. Probably going to need a new switch eventually but saved me tow fees and shop time I apprechiate the video! :):):)
South Main Auto Repair I spoke to soon left me stranded again at Walmart last night. I think it may be my starter going. Or a sensor somewhere. Bc it started up again this morning.
Just happened to to be browsing and found this awesome video. My 04 f 150 has been doing about the same thing. It turns on and then it doesn't want to anymore , and then all of a sudden it starts again. I will be looking at that relay in the morning . Awesome video thanks a lot.
Hi Eric. Thank you so much for this post. I crawled down the same rabbit hole as you did with this truck, except with no scanner or schematics at my disposal. I found a few things on the internet that helped me but eventually led to a dead end. My truck had the exact same problem and solution as yours. I found that fuses 32, 33, and 34 were not getting power just like your issue, but I was unable to isolate it to the PCM relay. Your video helped me tremendously and guided me to the finish line. Thank you.
I also like the common sense approach. Start from where the power to whatever starts and work forward from there. I'm glad you took that relay apart. That's what I'd do because if something fails I want to see why. Some of that stuff that isn't made to take apart can be fun to take apart. I have to wonder what Ford was thinking when the decided to put the fuse box there. Oh, I know, they weren't thinking. Now that's a big surprise. :-D
+The On Grid Homestead Am I the only one who doesn't mind ford's fuse box placement? I mean out of the fords I've owned or worked on, I've seen much worse from other manufacturers. Although I agree, the fuse box labelling is crap.
Naoki Saito You're right, a lot of car manufacturers put the fuse box in stupid places. It's kind of like the designer forgot all about the fuse box then had to locate it anywhere there was a little extra space. Actually, it seems like quite a few elements in modern cars are inconveniently placed that way :-D
renn 90 I would rather see the reaction from the first mechanical workshop that couldn’t fix it! I’m sure they won’t admit to how many hours they spent on it !
you remind me of my father. when all the other techs couldn't get the computer to tell them what was wrong, they turned to him. Old school diagnostics. Nice Job!
You usually don't need fancy tools to diagnose: 1) I bet the CEL didn't come on KOEO (when you first turn the key) 2) Bet the tach didn't move when cranking (This is also a test for the CPS) Always look for that on fords when there is a no-start. Usually that means a power issue to the PCM. Relays fail even if they look perfect. I had this same issue on a 96 Lincoln a few years ago.
I'm a 2010 owner and yeah exhaust manifolds I will never attempt again! I really enjoy your video's. I'm sure my relay or starter circuit will be sooner than later coming from the state that sits on salt mines. Thank you. God bless you.
Your saying this is one of your worst videos because of the camera shaking heck I'll take this video and grade it as ultimately excellent , good thing you are one of the few loyal trustworthy mechanics some others would bee like oh customer you need a starter and a fuel pump , your methods are second to none great video
OMG! Dude you nailed it. I had the exact same issues. I watched the video and BAM!. Temporarily switch the relays and it fired right up. Awesome! Thanks and keep them videos coming.
Most mechanics would have immediately ordered up a pcm. Then a ton more hours to actually find the problem after the new pcm didn’t work. Wish u closer to me sir. This video alone would get u my business when I failed to be able to do it myself. ✊
the look on your face when the loud beep goes off the first time and you turn and ask the camera "did you hear that" is priceless.
At first, I thought he edited the beep in to censor something he said!
Probably cause he Couldn't believe the fix was that easy because it's never that easy lol
I can honestly say that my DIY mechanic skills have gone way up since I started watching your vids. You obviously have great skills but what I like the most about you is your attitude... Each time I watch your videos, you make me want to go fix something !.. It shows that you love what you do and this transcend through the screen. Thank you for doing these and taking the time to explain the logic behind each move you do. Hopefully you keep doing them for a long time.
Cheers.
Spot on analysis on the Ford F150 by SMA and on the skill and ability to communicate!!! Big thumbs up!
Incredible patience and clean language. How do you do it?
Hahaha no joke... Eric is awesome! 👍👍
I agree i watch these videos when i get home from work in the shop. They make me want to think about work when im not at work.
Well now maybe that explains why I keep going out to my car, opening up the hood and looking around for something after watching Eric's videos. LOL
Nice that you failed to poke fun at the shop that had it before. You come off as humble and honest, great combination.
They were smart enough to bring it to him. It would have been different if they unloaded the parts cannon at the truck before bringing it to him.
There are so many shops with people who will throw parts at it and cost you a fortune. I wish we had more like you!
Customers need to demand proof of why it needs a part and not the word of the mechanic. Eric always has the proof. Great job Eric.
Another great video Eric, as an electrical technician in a hospital I have an old saying, "Five minutes with your head, can save an hour with your hands". Think about what it is you are there to repair, digest all the information you have and ask questions.
I would say the Verdigris on that relay is the result of that window being left open as a shower of rain came past in the wrong direction and made its way into the A pillar fuse box, corroding that relays pins out.
A couple of years ago I did an 11 state tour of the USA and took a trip to the Ford plant in Detroit where I saw the F-150's being assembled, I can tell ya the dash goes in on a gig and two guys secure it up in under two minutes, that fuse-box is already part of the dash and at best they just plug the connectors together before the truck moves along the line, nobody in the plant bent backwards to access it the way you were!!
I drive a Ford Mondeo (Ford Fusion in the USA) and the inside fuse-box is under the dash in a similar place, the good ole G-spot is easier to get your fingers on.
There are mechanics and there are parts changers, Eric is a true mechanic.
More like electricians with mechanical skills.
Too true
@Joe Black Likely they do and also they likely mark up what SMA's charge was to them which I would suppose is the same as any client rate would be. However, SMA has said in the past, he does this because he has a relationship with those shops. At some point, you have to deal with the local turf which is rural and word spreads fast in those conditions.
Help me
@Richard Hurts With mechanical skills.
All future mechanics need to listen to this guy. The fancy tool doesn’t tell you what’s wrong with the car. The fancy tool only tells you what’s being affected by what’s wrong. From there you have to start analyzing the data stream and doing proper troubleshooting. All I can say is I wish I had a mechanic like this where I live. He knows his stuff!
I can relate. My old Astra had "Turbo overboost" codes with limp mode set. I would never have found the issue without my AUTEL MaxiCOM and the live data. The codes alone pointed to the turbo. The live data showed the MAP sensor was stuck low when it should have been changing with revs. New sensor fitted, she revved up beautfully, with the sweet whistly moan of the turbo! Back to life! I love AUTEL products!
when you turn the key and the truck starts..and I know, it's not even my truck but..it brings a smile to my face.
You’re a hell of a mechanic and a wonderful resource. Always a pleasure watching your videos. Wish I had a mechanic like you closer to me!
Can I text you about my f 150
He'll be strutin around wearing a cape and a big S on his chest next 🤣😂🤣😂🤣😅🤣😂🤣
@@judywoodard7724no
Eric, I've watched many of your videos and have quite an admiration of your skills, patience and knowledge (and humor). I've practiced electronics for over for over 60 years, examined dozens (if not hundreds) of relays and of the very strong opinion your relay corrosion was generated by a front pillar/windshield/cowl leak (salt water). Relays don't self destruct in the manner that was shown.
Thanks for sharing your knowledge and time with us 'wannbe' shade tree mechanics!
Wow, being a Ford owner myself I am really impressed. Thanks, you have given me hope that there still is a few honest guys out there.
@johnny smit how stupid can u really be I have 3 ford trucks at my house best there is. We have 8 at my job all have 300 400k miles
I would be embarrassed to drive a chevy or fiat.
Theres more then a few honest guys, most mechanics are honest.
@johnny smit chill out
You don't need to make these videos any better your down to earth approach makes watching you work a pleasure keep it all going as it is
Colin McGregor Thank you sir :)
@@SouthMainAuto love watching a Master. Great . Start with the simpler things...always a good rule. Common sense....ability and skill.
i like your down to earth approach, it a real pleasure to see someone think his way though a problem, rather than relying on a computer to solve the problem
Thank you
+Anthony Patrick Thanks!
Tony Patrick
Eric, I love your sense of curiosity and ability to educate. I've been learning a LOT from your videos. I know this is an old video, but you're removing the rust from the old-school automotive technology classes I took in high school vocational school. Thank you for sharing the experience and logic behind your diagnoses!
This is a classic case of needing to keep it simple. Really cool seeing a diagnostic that isn't running around the vehicle looking at everything at once. Start from the bottom and work your way up. Keep up the great videos!
You are amazing. Your diagnostic skills are great and your delivery is articulate and always takes your audience along as though we are right there with you. May you have great success and become a RUclips sensation!
Nothing better than fixing something some one else could not. Great video as usual.
Sure is fun to go back in time and revisit old videos of yours.
Your procedures haven't changed, a bit more complete today perhaps, but still logical and thorough.
Don't ever change.
Thanks for sharing.
You’re the MAN just fixed a 2003 Expedition and that exact relay solved the problem. Thanks.
Being an old plant E/I mechanic I can't stress enough the need for Electrical prints. Thank you Eric for the great videos. They keep my mind fresh.
Eric O , you give me more and more inspiration every video I watch. As a DIYer mechanic you have given me some invaluable insight into basic automotive diagnostics. Your good heart and patience transfers into a great teacher. Thanks for sharing your automotive repair knowledge via RUclips and you have a fan for life in me. Keep the videos coming! May GOD continue to bless you and your family as you continue to balance work, family, and making RUclips videos.
Wiring diagrams and a test-light. Wiring diagrams are pricey. Test-light is cheap. The knowledge to use them both is priceless. Thanks for the vid!
You have nothing to apologize for in terms of quality of video OR quality of thought. Great video.
This guy has helped me so much at my job as a mechanic. Thank you Eric.
This was exactly what my problem was. You are the man! Probably saved me a few hundred dollars by not having to take to the dealership/shop to get it figured out. Thanks a lot! I appreciate it!
Man, I am so thankful for this video. It’s been a hard couple months with truck repairs (including a tranny rebuild) and this video saved me. Bless you and your family. $24 to fix because of you. Thanks a million.
Currently in the same boat. My 08 f150 is a rust bucket and my only vehicle.... it doesnt start....
Eric, I have been frustrated with my 2012 3.5L EcoBoost for the last month. It has been intermittently starting after driving for about an hour with multiple stops and restarts. Then turn the key or remote start and get nothing but dash board lights?? But if I lock it up and let it cool down for 10 to 20 minutes then it fires right up. I suspected fuse or relay to the PCM. When I watched you diagnos the 2006 f150, PCM main relay video, I just went to Ford parts and bought a new relay for $7.12 problem solved. Though my relay was located in the engine compartment above the radiator it still controlled the PCM according to my owners manual. Thanks a million.
You are a genius 😊
As a home mechanic with four of my own to keep running, I have always wanted to throw down and get a bidirectional tool, but the more I watch these videos the less I want to spend all that cash. You proved once again that a code scanner combined with a test light is many times more than enough to diagnose even the most puzzling problems. Great video. I agree with the comment below about watching you and wanting to go fix something after. I love watching your videos even when nothing is broke down and that says a lot about your talent to teach and motivate, oh and of course to diagnose also. Keep up the good work!
That was one of the best videos I've seen of yours, sometimes you just have to stay with the basics and go on from there great video
7⁸777
I know this is an old post but sure helped me out today. I had a no-crank, no-start, flashing antitheft light condition on my 2004 Ford F150. In the past I was able to get the truck to start with the "key on-unlock three times, key off-unlock three times, key on" dance but this time it flat would not work. My scanner was telling me the PCM was not responding. I checked the different ground connections and they were all good (cleaned them up anyway).
Then I watched this video, ran the same test light tests, and swapped the fog lamp relay into the PCM power slot and BAM! my truck started right up.
Thank you so much!
Sorry to have such a late replay. I have seen this same kind of corrosion on a device we use at work to test thermal imagers. We used to use a diluted dishwasher soap as a vacuum leak test chamber as a quality check. There is a power module in this unit that has a connector with spade pins. After several days one of the pins that provided communication would corrode with green crust and cause failure in the mech. These pins werent on the power circuit, however; during the test there was a electrical bias on this line. The problem was that dishwashing detergent has a lot of phosphates that will corrode copper when an electrical bias is applied. We ended up switching to a non-corrosive detect like "snoop" which stopped this from happening. probably similar situation with the relay in this car.
Awesome work. I watch you all the time to help me on my vehicles. You do great work.
Nice fix Eric. Checking power,ground, fuses, and relays is always first for me. My grandson watched this with me and said,"Papa,that's what you always tell us when you're helping us with a math problem. Use what you know to find out what you don't know with the information you have". This customer will probably chose you from now on. Best repair videos on youtube as far as I'm concerned.
gmctrk63 That has always helped me with diag work. Lets go find out what we know to help figure out what we don't know :) Lol glad he got it, you sound like a wise teacher.
Even though this video has been up a while, its still awesome when instincts kick in and a "let's start from square one" attitude make a problem like this seem so trivial. Awesome ninja diagnosis skills, Eric!
I learned a long time ago to check fuses and relays first. Great video
Thank you for the videos showing your troubleshooting steps and proving you don't always have to keep throwing parts at it until it runs again. I have a 2006 Milan that was doing the same thing with no com/start/etc and it ended up being the fuse for the circuit that the PATS is on. I figured I had a dead PCM. Once I replaced the fuse, it fired up right away after sitting nearly a year because I didn't want to spend much on a 16 year old car with a salvage title.
This one's a winner! While hooking up my trailer lights I saw a spark and the engine quit. I watched your video, replaced one trailer light fuse and swapped the same relay you did and that did the trick! When I heard that beep I was so excited! Thank you!
I enjoyed this one. You seemed a little hesitant or lost in the beginning but once you simplified it, had a plan... you straight up nailed it! Excelente! Me gustó! 👍👍
Just love these diagnostic videos. I taught electronic engine controls for 25 years and was in lock step with your every move. I really miss performing these diagnostics.
Keep it up
BOOOM! Just fixed my 2007 F150 5.4 with identical problem. Shop said starter, I said no way. Why can’t I hear my fuel pump if it was just the starter? Towed the truck home, and after 2 days of google and YouTubing search I found your video kind sir. I RAN to the truck to swap relays. Sure enough, Vrooom She instantly fired up. Your video saved me at least $1000 and multiple tows to different mechanics. Soon as I heard that Ford chime in your video I knew you found the culprit. Thank you thank you.
Just FYI we had some fairly cold weather recently and I had used my pickup to jump my semi truck. Took an hour on the jumper cables to get her started. Pretty sure I overheated plenty of the electrical system to cause that relay to go bad...
Thank you for this video. It was the same exact problem on my 5.4 Triton. I bought a new battery thinking it was a cranking amps issue and was contemplating a new starter until I saw this video. $18 bucks later, me the wife and the three dogs were taking our Sunday cruise through Key West once again.
Great video! Back to basics, a good wiring diagram, a way to find the fuse box, and some alert ears to pick up a change during testing. Nice.
Glad it helped
José from Lawrence MA thanks you for your video. I was able to start a 2003 Ford F-150 with this video.
Excellent work. You can tell that you care the way you explain and move camera around. I was on the edge of my seat to when that relay was triggered once for a start with your test light...dang that was fun. Subscribing now!!
Thanks man
FYI- Those second gen expeditions and f-150s are notorious for fuse panel problems. There are some relays soldered to the circuit board and one of them overheats, causing damage over time, eventually causing either intermittent fuel pump cutoff or failure altogether.
He beats what's called tv today!
It’s obvious you love what you do. I found that people who are really good at whatever it is they do, always love it. Nice job 👍🏻
Mr.O, you are very entertaining and informative. I look to your videos as another time well spent in a classroom, your shop. I look forward to more of your videos that i have not watched and diagnostics I have trouble with. I applaud your expert, basic knowledge on how to approach every situation you encounter. Thank you so much for you being you... and to your back up crew, Mrs O.
These videos are valuable insights on how to do stuff. Thank you Eric!
Eric the car guy talks about mechanics vs technicians. But I think this is a case where the mechanic wins. A mechanic grabs his "scope on a rope" and works the problem where a technician pulls out a scan tool and throws his hands up when it doesn't tell him what to fix. Good on you Mr. O!
Just a mechanic here...
no.... you appear to be both 8)
You do things with a scan tool that amaze me. Most technicians use a scan tool like Google for car problem answers. What part should I replace oh crystal ball. You use a scan tool as what it was meant to be...a diagnostic tool! And you make it deliver.
But the Technician is supposed to be The best Mechanic, lol, A Technician should always refer to the Basics of Ohms Law, lol
Erick is no Mechanic. He is a Propper Technitian and Diagnostician!!!!!! Erick You the Man!!!!!!!!!! I would love to work with someone like You. Keep it up💪🏻
Just some excellent diagnose work my man! I work in automotive development and frequently get frustrated by our mechanics acting like there's nothing they can do about the simplest of problems. I often dive into engine bays and do the very same stuff you show in these videos. Laptop with all the wiring diagrams and diagnostic software stays closed more often than not - think about the issues, find the most likely cause, test it. 90% of the time works every time.
😊😊
This was exactly what was wrong with our 2004! Thank you very much for posting this video - even 6 years later it is still helping people!
Excellent video, very proud of us technicians, who take the time to really diagnose the real problems of the daily living. Thank you again!
Love the show, Quick and to the point! you are so right about going to the basics sometimes it really pays off , thanks for the show!.
Mr. O Turns.... Looking at Camera says "Did You Guys Hear That? Priceless! 😂😂
New Sub here... Love this Channel, stay honest
Thank you for taking the time to make these videos, I am learning so much.
I know this is old, but I just wanted to say a big THANK YOU for posting this.!! We have an 05 - F150 Lariet with the 5.4. A couple of Months ago, it started stalling, and after a 1/2hr or so, it would fire back up and run fine. Well, over the next few weeks, it would do it randomly, so we started to look into what was happening. The first time it happened when I was around it, I laid under it and jumped the starter, and it fired right up......... The next time, a week or so later it died, I did that again, and it worked, so I replaced the starter... Then, it happened again, and this time I got codes U1900, U1950 and B1352
B1352 code possible causes
Faulty Ignition Key-In Switch (Part of the ignition switch) Ignition Key-In Switch harness is open or shorted Ignition Key-In Switch circuit poor electrical connection
Faulty Smart Comunication errors.
U1900 FORD code possible causes
Faulty / intermittent ignition switch connections CAN Bus wiring intermittently open/shorted to power or ground
Faulty / intermittent connection at PCM Faulty electrical connections at ABS Control Module Faulty electrical connections at the instrument cluster Poor connections at the trailer brake controller/trailer connector
U1950 FORD code possible causes
Faulty / intermittent ignition switch connections CAN Bus wiring intermittently open/shorted to power or ground
Faulty / intermittent connection at PCM Faulty electrical connections at ABS Control Module
Faulty electrical connections at the instrument cluster Poor connections at the trailer brake
But at this time, I could connect to it with my scanner obviously. So, we replaced the Ignition switch, the Oil sensor, and both VCT valves, and tested it again. It stalled on the way home. Only this last time, it would not let me connect to the OBD2 port....... That was a new problem, and also, this time it showed errors on the dash about a communication error, and a charging system error. Well, it cranked very fast, the battery was fully charged from the alternator, and when running it was at 14.1v, so I did not trust that one, but the code U1900 led me to search YT for a solution, and this is the very first video I found, and watched. So, I told my bud, who had the truck, to replace that same relay. He swapped the one from the fog lights and boom, the truck has not stalled once and it's been driving quite a bit now. There was no corrision on our relay, and just like this video, it still worked. It's working fine for the fog lights now. It has to be a connection issue in enginneering with the relays. I feel bad for those who have not found this video, and are still chasing this problem around. My next move was to replace the FPDM, but this vid saved me from having to do that.
THANK YOU! I greatly appreciate it!
A Ford guy.....
Holy ish! Popped the cover to check fuses and that fuse was just a danglin! Started rite up. It died on me leaving a job at 6am in the hood but it fired right up. So glad it happened at home and was able to find your video!!
Great job I was excited when it started. Please continue to be the best mechanic I've seen on RUclips your quality and attention to doing the best job is amazing its a shame those other shops didn't do the say due diligence and fix the car. Keep the videos coming Eric!!!!!
William Govan Well we can't win them all :)
The video was great! No apologies necessary! Thank you for all you do. You have taught me a lot and gotten me out of a couple of jams. 👍👍
Thank brothers, that’s really awesome, it just cost me a circuit tester and a relay fuse to fix my truck
Eric I live in American Samoa your approach to diagnostics has helped me go back to the basics to start instead of jumping all over the place. Thanks for this great lesson alofa atu wb
Thanks Eric....
I've been really struggling this winter with my stubborn 04 F150 Triton 3V.
First broke a timing guide ...barely limped it a few miles home.....fixed the timing stuff did lash adjusters checked rollers...new oil pump and PS pump that was leaking.
It ran ok but stalled when hot....got a code for engine temp sensor....also found vacuum leaks at the intake so I pulled that all apart....did plugs while it was apart and checked the knock sensors.....took my time and was real careful.
But then crank but no start.....messed with it a bit the no crank no start !
By now I'm way out of my league....gauges were acting crazy....had a weird clicking.....
Found your vid this morning and tried swapping the relays.....started immediatly ! That R02 relay is for fog lights.....I dont even have any !
Thank you so much......I dont have any more $$$$$ to pour into this truk but for now I really need it.
We energize the Control Side of the Relay- and at the same time check for (0) ohms on the Load side. This is the best way to check the Relay. I learned this from ASE Master Jason Varnum.
I just really appreciate your KISS method, thanks so much. Got my buddies truck running thanks to your video.
thank you so much for teaching us many things the classroom doesn't this is how I learned to keep my vehicles away from money hungry shops
I admire your ability to diagnose and repair a vehicle that another shop gave up on.
I know this is an old video, but PLEASE don't ever apologize for your camera work Eric. Your job comes first, you spend alot of time setting up the camera for perfect shots for us viewers, and take the time to thoroughly explain what you are doing step by step. If somebody has the nerve to complain about a shaky video, or out of focus video, well they don't need to watch because they are inconsiderate pricks. So please never apologize, thank you for all you do for us viewers.
This saved my ass!!! I was just about to rip out the starter and go to town before I luckily stumbled on this video. Thank you so much for sharing your experience and knowledge with us!!!
My damn truck is doing this exact thing ...
just started to watch your vids.......love them!!!!....your very high skill level and your verbal thinking method and camera work is superior....thanks.
thanks man
Back in the 70s, my dad used to be a mechanic at a dealership in Chicago, after work he would go to Dumpys Rucksack or Scrappy McDoogals for tater tots
Very honest and trustworthy. I have a 2006 F150 XLT 5.4 TRITON and love this truck. I have 210 thousand miles and take very good care of it. I've had people mistaken with my truck problems. This Mr. Eric O. does a very great job and I'm not saying he is all knowing, no one is but God. I wish he were here and I'd have him work on my truck. Enjoyed watching him.
Mr O is the Man,most shops would milk this dude for 4hrs of diag,he lucky he found the most honest mechanic in Newyork
Great job. I wouldn't have had a clue as to where to start. I wonder how many shops would have just diagnosed a bad pcm and replaced that without simple diagnostics. In this case, they'd still have a no crank no start.
Jeffrey Cardimen Yeah then the'd be scrambling :)
Jeffrey Cardimen
Please help
I just replaced body wiring harness and that whole pcm that you just replaced fuse. Mine is a 2013. I try to start and a clicking noise in pcm no fuel pump coming on just clicks. Does it need re programmed from dealer ? Or could it be relay or fuse like yours but it’s brand new from dealership. Please advise thanks
that was my first guess 10 minutes in - that's why I'm no longer in the biz ;-)
Nice video I think your logic is excellent dealing with this problem.I have always found thinking simple always seems best.
+Tam Couch It has helped me out through life..
+South Main Auto Repair it's a brand new battery new starter
I really like these diagnosis videos best, and it just struck me that now I can go back a few years for a repeat watch. I remember this truck, but didn't remember the solution to the mystery. Two things aren't mysteries; first, the engineers who put fuse boxes under the dash are stupid, and second, Eric is the man.
i have to disagree if you refering to ford being stupid for putting the box in a hard to reach spot,sure its harder to get too but the benefits of not having your fuse box exposed to the elements make it a better choice then engine bay.
@@pigeonsil240sx This is a part of a more general complaint with car makers who make cars today seemingly with little consideration for maintenance and repair. Twenty computer modules, inaccessible spark plugs, water pumps inside the block, and fuse panels under the dash. Put the panel on the side of the dash.
Things are too hard to work on because the mechanicals are stuffed inside the styling. Back in the day changing a water pump was fast and easy; blower motor, simple as pie. Try changing a blower motor now. First, it will take two hours to sort through the computers to verify the fault, then five more hours to disassemble the whole dash.
Cars are better, and more reliable now, probably designed to last for six trouble free years. But then they want you to buy a new car. Many folks like me have traded in cars because the cost of repair didn't warrant keeping it.
I’m a 50 year old woman.
My truck is doing exactly this the Mechanic men have made me buy a new battery, alternator and starter.
I’m going to Ford to get a PCM power relay and a fuse puller and try this fix my self.
Your video was very GREAT wish me luck. I will edit and let you know if that was my problem 🙏🏽😊🤔
What you find out?
I have a 2003 ford expedition with a no start problem, this cured it, started right up, thank you for your video. You saved me lots of money.
"What does this one do? Probably don't need it." - famous last words
It's the anti explode module.
Absolutely despicable! A mechanic that finds and fixes problems quickly. Unheard of.
Nice catch Eric, every now and then you get right to the root of the problem surprising even your self. Nice to see an honest mechanic pop up on the radar every now and then. Just curious, how many vehicles towed in from other shops become regular customers?
Cheers!
I would love to see their faces when they watch your video and see what a simple cause it was?
Eric, you never cease to amaze me. You’re a good your videos are awesome keep up the good work.
As a previous person commented there are mechanics and then they are Parts changers Eric not normally are you a great mechanic here when the few I see online that no electrical problems and sir I commend you for it , I have yet to see your videos where you do not fix electrical problem this is one of the reasons I keep watching your videos especially when you are fixing electrical problems wish me like so many others we are scared shitless on electronics problems on modern Cars & Trucks LIKE this one you fixed here .
Thanks man. This helped so much. Exactly my issue!
Damn nice job Mr. O......you da man !.....and yes, I've done the exhaust manifolds on the 05's and up......totally sucks....price em' out the door...
Hey man thanks for this video. Truck wouldn't start 20 minutes ago. Checked those relay switches in the fuse box by the passenger door.Just took them out and put them back in and it starts right up. Probably going to need a new switch eventually but saved me tow fees and shop time I apprechiate the video! :):):)
+TrailerTrash Rusty Cool!
South Main Auto Repair I spoke to soon left me stranded again at Walmart last night. I think it may be my starter going. Or a sensor somewhere. Bc it started up again this morning.
+TrailerTrash Rusty Ahh got ya
Just happened to to be browsing and found this awesome video. My 04 f 150 has been doing about the same thing. It turns on and then it doesn't want to anymore , and then all of a sudden it starts again. I will be looking at that relay in the morning . Awesome video thanks a lot.
Hi Eric. Thank you so much for this post. I crawled down the same rabbit hole as you did with this truck, except with no scanner or schematics at my disposal. I found a few things on the internet that helped me but eventually led to a dead end. My truck had the exact same problem and solution as yours. I found that fuses 32, 33, and 34 were not getting power just like your issue, but I was unable to isolate it to the PCM relay. Your video helped me tremendously and guided me to the finish line. Thank you.
I also like the common sense approach. Start from where the power to whatever starts and work forward from there. I'm glad you took that relay apart. That's what I'd do because if something fails I want to see why. Some of that stuff that isn't made to take apart can be fun to take apart. I have to wonder what Ford was thinking when the decided to put the fuse box there. Oh, I know, they weren't thinking. Now that's a big surprise. :-D
+The On Grid Homestead Am I the only one who doesn't mind ford's fuse box placement? I mean out of the fords I've owned or worked on, I've seen much worse from other manufacturers. Although I agree, the fuse box labelling is crap.
Naoki Saito You're right, a lot of car manufacturers put the fuse box in stupid places. It's kind of like the designer forgot all about the fuse box then had to locate it anywhere there was a little extra space. Actually, it seems like quite a few elements in modern cars are inconveniently placed that way :-D
+The On Grid Homestead I actually think it's a Ford generic thing. The older Focus's PCM was located in that spot.
it would be cool to see the owner's reactions when you tell them that you resolved their problems in short time.
renn 90 I would rather see the reaction from the first mechanical workshop that couldn’t fix it! I’m sure they won’t admit to how many hours they spent on it !
@@paulsz6194 Yes I want to see the reaction of the other shop too hahaha face palm
Good
Great job! New fan!
you remind me of my father. when all the other techs couldn't get the computer to tell them what was wrong, they turned to him. Old school diagnostics. Nice Job!
The algorithm took me back nearly 6 years. Eric seemed to be nervous making videos back then. LOL, he is not nervous now for sure.
A loud growling bear that is!
Keeping it elementary, it's a art.
You usually don't need fancy tools to diagnose:
1) I bet the CEL didn't come on KOEO (when you first turn the key)
2) Bet the tach didn't move when cranking (This is also a test for the CPS)
Always look for that on fords when there is a no-start.
Usually that means a power issue to the PCM. Relays fail even if they look perfect.
I had this same issue on a 96 Lincoln a few years ago.
alb12345672 I fixed a lot of under hood fuse boxes on those old Lincolns.
Man good find I would have chased the no com. There is a TSB out on that I think water leak from windshield on the jewel box as Ford calls it.
Jrad Librando I will look into that thanks :)
I'm a 2010 owner and yeah exhaust manifolds I will never attempt again! I really enjoy your video's. I'm sure my relay or starter circuit will be sooner than later coming from the state that sits on salt mines. Thank you. God bless you.
Your saying this is one of your worst videos because of the camera shaking heck I'll take this video and grade it as ultimately excellent , good thing you are one of the few loyal trustworthy mechanics some others would bee like oh customer you need a starter and a fuel pump , your methods are second to none great video
i enjoyed this video alot
+Calculatedrisk262 Thanks
19 Ford dealer mechanics didn't like this video
160 apparently dislike it now lol
@@tdmfan750 All those new PCM's they could have sold .......
That is a good thing. Dealerships are way to proud of their service by about 300%
Dealer mechs don't make phat bank, the dealers do. The mechs get flat rate most times. That's why so many turn independent!
LOLOLOLOL
OMG! Dude you nailed it. I had the exact same issues. I watched the video and BAM!. Temporarily switch the relays and it fired right up. Awesome! Thanks and keep them videos coming.
A very wise man once taught me to always check the basics!!!! You are truly an ace in the hole crackerjack!!!!!
Most mechanics would have immediately ordered up a pcm. Then a ton more hours to actually find the problem after the new pcm didn’t work. Wish u closer to me sir. This video alone would get u my business when I failed to be able to do it myself. ✊
My check engine light came on. I opened the hood, and sure enough, the engine was there! Problem solved!
Robby Jones lol
😂🤣😂
Must be a faulty check engine light circuit. Just removed the globe & problem solved!
LOL
Lol