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The code the computer gives me is P0401

Tiny
DKELLY
  • MEMBER
  • 1999 FORD ESCORT
  • 134,123 MILES
The service engine light is on and wont go off even when it is reset by the computer. I also can not change into gear unless I stick an bobby pin to release the pin so I can change gears, what can be the problem with this, is it electrical or maybe it is the fuse. Please help! Oh, and Happy New Year by the way :)
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Tuesday, January 3rd, 2012 AT 12:15 AM

7 Replies

Tiny
RIVERMIKERAT
  • MECHANIC
  • 6,110 POSTS
P0401 is emissions related. EGR flow insufficient. Remove it and clean it out. Then scan again.
Where do you have to stick the pin to shift? Please send image.
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Tuesday, January 3rd, 2012 AT 12:19 AM
Tiny
DKELLY
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Thank you for your response, so I just have the mechanic remove it and clean it out so see if that is the problem before I buy a new EGR valve. I will send an image tomorrow thank you very kindly.
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Tuesday, January 3rd, 2012 AT 3:28 AM
Tiny
RIVERMIKERAT
  • MECHANIC
  • 6,110 POSTS
My pleasure. Happy to help.
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Tuesday, January 3rd, 2012 AT 3:54 AM
Tiny
DKELLY
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Hello good evening, I went out and brought the EGR valve because the parts guy told me I had to change it out, I also took a picture of the gear box as per your request.
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Wednesday, January 4th, 2012 AT 12:49 AM
Tiny
RIVERMIKERAT
  • MECHANIC
  • 6,110 POSTS
Yep. Looks like my 99 Escort. I'm guessing the hole in the upper right of the shifter section of the console is where you have to stick the pin? It isn't electrical. Remove the shifter handle (should be a set screw for this) and remove the console. There is a linkage assembly that is probably bent or slipped.
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Wednesday, January 4th, 2012 AT 1:05 AM
Tiny
DKELLY
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Yes that is where I had to push in my pin in order to release it into gear. Ok this is helpful information for me, I can pass along to my non existing ex- husband, who also knows what to do and who just happens to be a mechanic who for some reason doesnt want to our son and myself be safe. I know to much information, but it's ashame. Thank's again, good night! :)

P.S. You think I can do this myself, b/c I have been driving for awhile having to stick this pin in the hole and quite frankly it isn't safe if i'm ever in an emergency, God forbid.
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Wednesday, January 4th, 2012 AT 3:22 AM
Tiny
RIVERMIKERAT
  • MECHANIC
  • 6,110 POSTS
Sounds like my ex-wife. At least neither of you have kicked a minor child out of the house at 13 years old like my ex did to our daughter, then our son when he was 16.

Yes, it's something you can do quite easily. Move the seats back as far as they go. There are 2 covers on each side. Remove them. At the base of the shifter handle is a small set screw. It might be a small Phillips or Torx (star) or it might be a small Allen head.

If you've got the extra $20 plus tax (in the U.S.) Get yourself a Haynes or Chiltons manual for the car from Autozone, Advanced, O'Reillys, etc. They're indispensable to people on a budget. I buy them for every car I own.
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Wednesday, January 4th, 2012 AT 3:37 AM

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