Ford Flex Reduced Engine Power

I'm pulling my hair out! My 2015 Ford Flex with a gasoline engine is acting up. I'm getting reduced engine power and a check engine light. The error memory has codes pointing to the engine control unit. Could the computer module really be fried? Mileage is at 210217 km. I read online it could be the main relay. Anyone else seen this?

4 comment(s)

I had a similar issue with my Ford Flex (it's a 2018). Reduced engine power can often be linked to the ECU, which is the engine control unit. The main relay supplies power to the ECU; if it's failing, the ECU might not receive the necessary voltage, leading to those symptoms and the stored error codes. How old is your battery?

The battery is only about a year old. So, you're saying a faulty relay can actually cause the ECU to throw codes and limit engine performance? Is it worth replacing the relay before condemning the whole computer module?

Yes, a failing main relay can definitely cause those symptoms. The ECU is a sensitive piece of equipment. If it's not getting the correct and stable power, it will behave erratically. I recommend taking your car to a workshop to verify if it is the main relay before replacing it. In my case it was the relay.

Thanks for the tip! I took it to the shop, and you were spot on – faulty main relay. 120€ later, and she's running like new again. Appreciate the help!

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