jannikdark1
Ford Explorer ECU Defective
Summary of the thread
The conversation revolves around a 2005 Ford Explorer experiencing reduced engine power, with a diagnostic report indicating a defective engine control unit (ECU). Initial advice suggested trying a battery disconnect to reset the system, as sometimes a failing sensor or relay can mimic ECU issues. After the reset didn't resolve the problem, further diagnostics at a workshop revealed the issue was a defective main relay, not the ECU itself, leading to a much simpler and less costly repair.
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4 comment(s)
jannikdark1 (community.author)
The report just said "ECU defective". No specific error code that I saw. Disconnecting the battery sounds easy enough, I'll try that. But if that doesn't work, does that mean I need a whole new ECU? That sounds crazy expensive!
friedrichwagner4
Yeah, 'ECU defective' without a code is pretty vague. The battery disconnect is worth a shot. If that doesn't do it, unfortunately, it probably points to an internal ECU issue. Before you panic and buy a new one, I'd strongly suggest taking it to a trusted workshop. They can run more in-depth diagnostics to pinpoint the problem. It might be something as simple as a defective main relay causing the ECU to act up, which would be a much cheaper fix than replacing the entire unit.
jannikdark1 (community.author)
Disconnecting the battery didn't work, so I took it to the workshop like you suggested. Turns out it was just a defective main relay! They replaced it, cleared the error, and the Explorer is running great again. The repair cost me 120€, much better than a new ECU. Thanks again for the great advice!
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EXPLORER
friedrichwagner4
Whoa, ECU problems are never fun. Did the diagnostics report mention anything specific about why the ECU is defective? Sometimes a failing sensor can trigger ECU errors, even though the ECU itself is fine. Have you tried a simple system reset by disconnecting the battery for about 30 minutes? Also, what's the exact error code?