Low engine power

2001 FORD LASER
125,000 MILES • 1.6L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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RAJ SUNDAR
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Car Is lacking power. The Test Led Light Method retrieved the flashes as following:

1 Long flash
1 Long and 3 short flashes
1 Long and 2 short flashes
1 Long and 8 short flashes

MIL is not working. I think the globe is burnt. Earlier suspected the fuel filter and changed it. Compression and spark plugs look good. Injector cleaner was mixed with the fuel.

Do the flashes tell anything about the sensors? Please give your answer.
Nov 30, 2021 at 7:00 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

First, please understand this vehicle isn't offered in the US, but I will do my best to help.

These codes tell me a few things. First, the ignition diagnostic monitor has a circuit failure. That makes sense because indicated the mil is not working. That is code 18.

Code 12 is related to an idle control fault. Are you having issues with idle speed?

Last is code 13 which indicates the "DC motor" isn't moving. (IAC)

Based on these codes, I suspect you are having a higher than normal idle speed. Is that correct? Have you checked the idle air control valve, (IAC), on the throttle body? Here is a link that explains how it works:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-idle-air-control-valve-works

If you look below, I attached a pic or an IAC. On the vehicle's throttle body will be one that looks similar. You may want to consider trying to service it. Here is a link that explains how it's done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/idle-air-control-valve-service

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.



Nov 30, 2021 at 7:12 PM
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RAJ SUNDAR
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Thanks, Joe, for your reply.
I do not have any apparent idle or starting problems. If the IAC Valve is stuck open will there be loss of power? I assume the valve is stuck open and when the gas pedal is pressed idle air is added to the measured air making the mixture weak. Please correct if I am wrong.

Kind Regards,
Raj
Dec 1, 2021 at 6:54 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

It is possible, but if it is allowing too much air to enter, I would think you would have a higher than specified idle speed.

Regardless, I would try to service it. When you remove it, make sure where it mounts is clear of carbon.

Joe
Dec 1, 2021 at 7:57 PM
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RAJ SUNDAR
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Hi Joe,

I hadn't erased the previous codes because I was not aware the correct procedure to erase the codes. I should have pressed the brake pedal at least for 20 seconds after disconnecting the battery. I, now erased the codes and no more flashes. I am sorry for my mistake.

So, is the problem with Transmission as I have RPM but no good acceleration?
Dec 5, 2021 at 7:09 PM
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RAJ SUNDAR
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I was wrong to send an email today, please ignore it. The codes are coming again. I will replace the IAC Valve and let you know the problem if any.
Dec 5, 2021 at 7:13 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

No problem whatsoever. Let me know how things turn out for you. Also, when you replace the IAC, make sure there isn't carbon or anything blocking the air passage where it goes on the throttle body.

Let me know if that takes care of the issue.

Joe
Dec 5, 2021 at 7:18 PM