The anti-theft shutting down vehicle?

Tiny
JULIE EDWARDS2
  • MEMBER
  • 1998 FORD EXPLORER
  • 4.0L
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 204,000 MILES
My vehicle drives for about 20 to 30 minutes but then will simply shut down but after about 15 minutes it will restart. I took it to my mechanic, and they received a code that the alarm system was malfunctioning and that I would have to replace the computer, but I am not sure I trust that 100%. I have read a couple of different ways to reset the alarm system, I would like to at least try to reset it but I'm not sure which will work.
Wednesday, February 1st, 2023 AT 12:25 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
By any chance, do you know the code? I ask because what you described sounds like a faulty crankshaft position. When they start to fail, they are adversely affected by heat. Once they have some time to cool off, they work again.

Do me a favor. Take a look through this link and let me know if it mirrors what you experience. Also, let me know if the theft light is turning on or not.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/symptoms-of-a-bad-crankshaft-sensor

Let me know. Also, check your receipt for codes and let me know what they are. I doubt you need to replace the computer.

Take care,

Joe
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Wednesday, February 1st, 2023 AT 7:56 PM
Tiny
JULIE EDWARDS2
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I do not know the code; the mechanic did not charge me anything for diagnosing it, so I have no receipt. It is not stalling when idling nor misfiring.
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Thursday, February 2nd, 2023 AT 5:30 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

No problem. What I need you to do is this. When it won't restart, watch the tachometer to see if it moves a bit when cranking.

If you have no tachometer, we need to check for spark at the plugs.

Here is a link that explains how it's done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-for-ignition-spark

Let me know what you find.

Joe
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Thursday, February 2nd, 2023 AT 6:40 PM

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