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eberhard_eule1

Escape Fault Memory Lock Active

Hi, I'm having a strange issue with my 2004 Ford Escape with a gasoline engine. The diagnostics are showing a 'Fault memory lock active'. The only symptom I've noticed is an error stored in the error memory, but the car seems to drive fine. I've cleared the fault codes, but it keeps coming back. I suspect it might be related to undervoltage, but I'm not entirely sure. Anyone experienced this before?

4 comment(s)

emilybecker72

Sounds like your ECU is acting up. A memory lock suggests the computer system isn't happy. It's like when your phone freezes and needs a reboot, but in this case, the car's brain is locking up certain functions. Have you checked the battery voltage and the alternator output? A weak battery can cause all sorts of weird electrical gremlins.

eberhard_eule1 (Author)

Thanks for the quick response! I checked the battery voltage, and it seems okay at around 12.5V with the engine off. I haven't checked the alternator output yet. Where exactly should I measure that, and what values should I be looking for? Also, could a faulty ground connection cause this kind of issue?

emilybecker72

12.5V at rest is decent, but you need to see what the alternator is pushing out while the engine's running – should be between 13.5 and 14.5V. Measure at the battery terminals. A bad ground absolutely can cause this. Think of it like a leaky pipe; the electricity isn't flowing smoothly. Given the 'memory lock' error, and your checks so far, taking it to a workshop for a proper ECU diagnostics check might be your best bet. They have the tools to dig deeper than we can here.

eberhard_eule1 (Author)

Thanks for the advice! I checked the alternator output and it was a bit low. Took it to the shop as suggested. Turns out, there was indeed an undervoltage issue and the computer needed to be reset and reprogrammed. Cost me 240€, but at least it's fixed now!

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