Can a bad PCM cause no start, starter failure?

2016 FORD FOCUS
125,000 MILES • 1.0L • 3 CYL • TURBO • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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WALLY AB
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Recently this car has been acting up again. It was showing a p2227 for a while, causing it to stall and shut off. The starter was working but after trying so many times to crank it, it refused to start and ruined the starter.

It also started showing codes for the crank sensor and starter motor disabled but went away. Next day I drove it to a shop, and the car wouldn't start after diagnosing it. They said the PCM needs to be flashed at the dealer. It would crank but stopped and it only showed the barometric pressure sensor code.
Jun 27, 2024 at 8:23 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

A faulty PCM (powertrain control module) can certainly prevent the engine from running. However, I have a few questions and tests. Is that the only code that was retrieved? Also, flashing the PCM can update it, but usually, it isn't done for the symptoms you mentioned, specifically the starter not working.

You mentioned the crankshaft position sensor. That will prevent it from starting and you mentioned it above. Do you have the vehicle at home now? If so, see if it starts using starting fluid. If it does and then stalls, we will know it is fuel related. If there is no change, then suspect an ignition issue. At this point, I would need you to check if there is spark to the plugs.

Here is a link that explains how that is done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-for-ignition-spark

If there is no spark, suspect the crankshaft position sensor has failed.

Take a look through this link and let me know if anything mirrors what you have experienced:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/symptoms-of-a-bad-crankshaft-sensor

Let me know.

Joe

Jun 27, 2024 at 8:57 PM
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WALLY AB
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Put in a new starter today and it started fine, but it's likely the same issue will come up again.
Jun 28, 2024 at 6:23 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

Hopefully, that won't be the case. This is why I felt flashing the computer wasn't going to resolve the issue. LOL Regardless, if something changes and it happens again, let me know and one way or another, we'll figure it out.

Take care and feel free to come back anytime in the future. Also, have a good 4th.

Joe
Jun 29, 2024 at 7:36 PM
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WALLY AB
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I took the car to the dealer to do a diag. They told me the PCM had communication issues and I a new one would cost around $1,300+ install and programming.

I got a used PCM off a 2018 Focus and it flashed and ran fine, but I still have to keep an eye out for the overheating issue.
Jul 5, 2024 at 7:24 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

First, I'm glad to know you got it running. As far as overheating, pay attention to the conditions when it happens. For example, is the A/C running? Do you hear the cooling fans running? Does it only happen in stop and go traffic?

If the problem continues, let me know as much as you can.

Take care of yourself.

Jul 6, 2024 at 9:27 PM