Terrain Management System fault and 4WD Malfunction Service Required

NICKTHAYER

MEMBER
2016 FORD EXPLORER
3.5L
V6
4WD
AUTOMATIC
140,000 MILES

Both of the lights listed above came on while driving on the highway. I pulled over and turned the vehicle off and back on. The lights reappeared. About 1,000 miles ago I replaced the rack and pinion assembly along with the upper steering shaft. When I try to turn the knob to change driving modes the Terrain management system fault light pops up every time the knob is turned. I know I need new rotors but don't think it would have anything to do with this. Hoping its not anything with the PTU. The vehicle seems to still drive normally.

Wednesday, May 5th, 2021 AT 5:56 AM

5 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,106 POSTS

Hi,

The issues are likely related. I don't feel it is the PCM, but anything is possible at this time.

I have diagnostics for the 4wd unit, but if I sent them to you, you would go crazy. You would end up with a book there are so many pages. So, here is what I suggest. We need to get diagnostic trouble codes pulled. Since the vehicle is newer, I need you to have the can-bus scanned.

CAN stands for controller area network. Basically, all the modules/computers are tied together via a few wires. By performing this type of scan, it will identify codes regardless of which module they are stored in.

Here is a video showing how it is done:

https://youtu.be/InIlnsjOVFA

Once the codes are retrieved, then we can pinpoint the problem. I suspect it will be a connection issue, but it could be in many places.

Let me know what you find or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

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Thursday, May 6th, 2021 AT 8:43 PM

NICKTHAYER

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Here are all of my codes. I believe they may all be related. My A/C recently started not working. Fuse #3 (10a) keeps blowing. The fuse if for “A/C clutch control relay coil. VACC. Active grille shutters”. I unplugged the compressor, compressor clutch and the grille shutters and the fuse is still blowing, even if the A/C is turned off. I put 12v to the clutch and it engages, so that is not bad. I am suspecting a short somewhere but have no clue where to start. I’m thinking this short may also be causing the 4wd issue. Please let me know if you have any thoughts or suggestions. Thanks,
Nick

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Monday, May 17th, 2021 AT 7:30 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,106 POSTS

Hi,

As far as the AWD, the problem is in the module feedback. This will require diagnostics to determine the cause. I attached the diagnostics below. Take a look through them and let me know if you are comfortable doing them. Here is a link you may find helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

As far as the A/C, you must have a short at some point. I need you to start a new thread specific to that problem. We are trying to keep the threads specific to one topic so they are more helpful to others. I hope you understand. Simply copy and paste your A/C question to the following link. I hope you understand.

https://www.2carpros.com/questions/new

Take care,

Joe

See pics below for diagnostics.

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Monday, May 17th, 2021 AT 9:18 PM

NICKTHAYER

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Yeah, I understand. Where is the PCM/ECU/ECM located on my Explorer? They must have hidden this one good. I can’t seem to find it anywhere.

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Tuesday, May 18th, 2021 AT 5:58 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
110,106 POSTS

Hi,

They did hide it. LOL You have to remove the cowl at the base of the windshield to access it. If you look at the attached pic below, it shows its location.

Let me know if I can help or if you have other questions.

Joe

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