Wacked out H2O Gauge

[mikiec]

Here is my problem...

The H2O gauge is now pegging to the 5 o'clock position. I need to check to see if the sender is bad or the gauge has gone legs up. What is the best way to check out this system?

I have asked for help in removing the dash if I have to go that way. But, it would be much easier if the sender is bad.

Thanks to all
Mike

 

[bigcat]

the guage is part of the inst. cluster. really simple to remove if needed. takes maybe 5 minutes at most. get a service manual to get a better idea of whats involved to troubleshoot this system. i will also PM mike and see if he can help with specifics.

 

[Mike97gt]

there is really not much you can do to test the gauge itself other then to do a cluster sweep test.

If it's stuck in the cold position then check and make sure you have heat. If you do not have heat then you most likely have low engine coolant and the sensor is not submerged in coolant.. That will cause the gauge to be pegged cold.

I will post how to do the sweep test later after the sox game

 

[mikiec]

Thanks,

It is stuck way past hot.

Go Sox.. Grew up in Saugus, now in AZ

Mike

 

[mikiec]

OK,

It's now gotten worse. The water temp gauge now points to the left at 270 degrees of compass movement. The fuel gauge now points to 90 degrees when the tank is full. Neither gauge will zero out.

I guess it's off to the dealer. Crap. 800 miles out of warranty.

Mike

 

[bigcat]

800 miles and you should be able to sweet talk them into fixing it. it would not be the first time that they would go slightly beyond the mileage to satisfy the customer.

 

[Mike97gt]

Sorry I forgot about this thread. If you see me forget feel free to PM me.

There is no way to enter diag mode without a scan tool in this model.

99-100 times a problem like this is the cluster itself

 

[mikiec]

Even though the car is out of warranty, by 900 miles, the dealer is going to cover the repairs.

They said they have replaced 3 or 4 clusters in the past year.

I'll let everyone know the outcome.

mike

 

[Mike97gt]

Ok i was wrong I misread the book.. the 2005+ mustang is like all other newer fords.

To enter test mode.

If you have a message center

1. with the key in the off position hold down the reset button and then turn the key to the on position and hold for 3 seconds.

2. then hit the reset button you see what you want to see

If you do not have a message center do the same thing but using the trip odometer button.

 

[mikiec]

Thanks, SVT....

I'll remember that info.

The dealer replaced the cluster. Cost me $80.00. Alot better than 400 plus labor.

Mike