code 214, slow acceleration?

1994 FORD ESCORT
200,000 MILES • 1.9L • 4 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
Avatar
ALLAN HENDRIX
  • MEMBER
  • 18 POSTS
rough idle and poor acceleration from a stop.
Jul 28, 2022 at 2:12 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

The code indicates there is an issue with cylinder identification. This could be the result of a few different things.

If you look at the attached pic below, I need to know if the vehicle is still running. I realize you mentioned poor acceleration/rough idle which indicates a misfire to me. But I need to confirm that it still runs to know which test to focus on.

Let me know.

Joe

See pic below.
Jul 28, 2022 at 6:52 AM
Avatar
ALLAN HENDRIX
  • MEMBER
  • 18 POSTS
Hi, yes, engine runs well.
Jul 28, 2022 at 10:21 PM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

That takes me to a test that indicates to clear the code and see if it resets. Here is what to do: Disconnect the battery. With a zip tie, tie the two cables together and allow it to sit for approximately 10 minutes. Connecting the cables drains capacitors, so it's important to do it.

See the attachment below. Next, I need to know if it returns or not. Follow the directions and let me know what happens.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.
Jul 29, 2022 at 1:32 PM
Avatar
ALLAN HENDRIX
  • MEMBER
  • 18 POSTS
Okay, I'll try that. I disconnected for a couple hours, nothing. I'll be back. Thank you
Jul 29, 2022 at 10:30 PM
Avatar
ALLAN HENDRIX
  • MEMBER
  • 18 POSTS
codes 412 and 538. May be afraid to blow the rods out during flooring accelerator test.
Jul 30, 2022 at 4:03 AM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Allan,

Are these new codes? Also, did the 214 return? I need to know. If they are, I have to determine which one is most likely related to the 214 you had originally.

Let me know.

Joe
Jul 30, 2022 at 1:22 PM
Avatar
ALLAN HENDRIX
  • MEMBER
  • 18 POSTS
No, 214 just 411, 412 and 538.
Jul 30, 2022 at 5:18 PM
Avatar
ALLAN HENDRIX
  • MEMBER
  • 18 POSTS
411, 412 are new with koer, first time koer.
Jul 30, 2022 at 5:18 PM
Avatar
ALLAN HENDRIX
  • MEMBER
  • 18 POSTS
Also, I am looking at IAC valve, it reads 11 ohms across the solenoid. The information I can find lists less than 1 ohm as proper, do you know anything about that?
Jul 31, 2022 at 2:20 AM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

The reading you have, 11 ohms, is normal. The only concern is there is a diode in the IAC. You have to make sure you have it connected the right way when checking.

I have a feeling the person that said less than 1 ohm had it hooked up backward.

I attached the directions below. Take a look and confirm you tested it the correct way.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.
Jul 31, 2022 at 5:05 AM
Avatar
ALLAN HENDRIX
  • MEMBER
  • 18 POSTS
Thank you.
Jul 31, 2022 at 10:55 AM
Avatar
ALLAN HENDRIX
  • MEMBER
  • 18 POSTS
Hi again, did I lose you? I am wonderingif you have anything more onthe411, 412 code and the lag when accelerating from idle?
Aug 3, 2022 at 3:51 AM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hello,

Nope, I'm still here. I thought I lost you. LOL

Take a look at pic 1. It shows the diagnostics for each code. I have attached them for you. Here is what I noticed. One thing in common that both codes have is an issue with the idle air control valve (IAC). However, a faulty IAC isn't the only possibility. They indicate in both to check for contamination.

Additionally, there are two different IAC valves that may have been used. One has a filter on it and is non-serviceable. if that is plugged, maybe it is causing an issue.

Take a look through them and let me know your thoughts. Additionally, at the end of the second set of diagnostics, it indicates what direction to test next, based on findings.

Let me know,

Joe

See pics below.
Aug 3, 2022 at 12:29 PM
Avatar
ALLAN HENDRIX
  • MEMBER
  • 18 POSTS
thanks, I'll be back.
Aug 3, 2022 at 11:01 PM
Avatar
ALLAN HENDRIX
  • MEMBER
  • 18 POSTS
Hi, On testing IAC with ohmmeter, I get 11.4 ohms each way, switching back and forth no difference, is that a shorted diode? an open would be infinite resistance (or close)?
Aug 4, 2022 at 3:44 AM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
The IAC sounds bad. It isn't an open circuit, but it sounds as though the diode has failed. Have you already tried a new one?

Let me know.

Joe
Aug 4, 2022 at 9:58 AM
Avatar
ALLAN HENDRIX
  • MEMBER
  • 18 POSTS
I have one on the way, none locally. I will let you know as soon as it gets here and on the car, probably around the 8th.
Aug 4, 2022 at 11:01 AM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

Thanks for the update. I will watch for your reply. Let me know if you have questions or if I can help in any way.

Joe
Aug 4, 2022 at 3:13 PM
Avatar
ALLAN HENDRIX
  • MEMBER
  • 18 POSTS
I"ll be back.
Aug 4, 2022 at 10:14 PM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

It has been a few days since I heard from you. Have you had any luck? I don't mean to be a pain. LOL Just interested in knowing.

Take care,

Joe
Aug 7, 2022 at 1:24 PM
Avatar
ALLAN HENDRIX
  • MEMBER
  • 18 POSTS
still waiting on DHL to deliver. seems a little slow, huh?
Aug 7, 2022 at 10:12 PM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

A little. LOL Anytime I have something shipped and it is carried by them, it takes twice as long. I have no idea why. FedEx and UPS are much faster.

Hang in there. Let me know when you get it.

Take care.

Joe
Aug 8, 2022 at 1:24 PM
Avatar
ALLAN HENDRIX
  • MEMBER
  • 18 POSTS
now it's the thirteenth.
Aug 8, 2022 at 9:50 PM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Allan,

I have experienced exactly what you are going through with them. LOL I feel your pain and frustration. Hang in there. It may not be as quick, but they will get it to you.

Take care,

Joe
Aug 9, 2022 at 5:13 AM
Avatar
ALLAN HENDRIX
  • MEMBER
  • 18 POSTS
well, it isn't that big a deal really. I don't need the vehicle to get around but it does rub the wrong way when you're told one thing, so you bite then wait because the deal changes on you.
Aug 9, 2022 at 6:06 AM
Avatar
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

I totally understand. Have you received it yet today?

Joe
Aug 11, 2022 at 6:08 AM
Avatar
ALLAN HENDRIX
  • MEMBER
  • 18 POSTS
not yet, supposed to be out for delivery, we'll see soon.
Aug 11, 2022 at 6:28 AM
Avatar
ALLAN HENDRIX
  • MEMBER
  • 18 POSTS
So, I have it on and the lag from idle is better, but light is still on. will check codes again and see what's up with that. maybe disconnect from juice for a while and see if it clears.
Aug 13, 2022 at 12:19 AM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,273 POSTS
Sounds good, let us know what you come up with.
Aug 13, 2022 at 5:33 AM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.