1995 Ford Escort Stalls After Running

1953 FORD ESCORT
Avatar
WYNRYPEN
  • MEMBER
  • 52 POSTS
hey !!
95 ford escort............

it starts up, then runs for a good 4 minutes, then stalls, i got two codes from my scanner which are 172 and 538:

:arrow: :?: [b:654b973af2]172: lack of heated oxygen sensor (h20s-1) switches, indicates lean bank #1[/b:654b973af2]
[b:654b973af2]538: which is insufficient rpm change[/b:654b973af2],

what in the hell is 172 saying? :x

here are the things i have done:

1)changed the air filter
2)changed the fuel filter
3)changed the fuel pump
4)changed the o2 sensor
5)changed out with a used MAS
6)changed out with a used IAC (both from pick n pull)
8)new gaskets in all the necesary parts
Dec 18, 2006 at 10:47 AM
Avatar
BACKYARDMECHANIC
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 337 POSTS
I happen to have the same car 1.9 and have had the same problem. The code 172 heated 02 sensor means the car is running lean but I can see where one would suspect the O2 sensor. The insufficient rpm change could be you didn't run the test right and there is nothing else wrong. I'am assume you still have the check engine light on even AFTER changing the listed parts. Have you cleared the code after making the repairs ? You may have already fix the problem and not know it. I fix the problem by cleaning the fuel system/ injectors and it has fix the problem. The car is running leanning but it may be because of a mechanical malfunction ( clogged injectors) not a electronic one. Try cleaning the injectors ( the one you put in the tank will work but cleaning the system with the pressure type is better )and let me know how you make out. Hope this helps Backyardmechanic :)
Dec 19, 2006 at 1:09 AM
🔧 Tools & Auto Repair Parts
Find automotive tools, diagnostic equipment, and replacement parts for your next repair.
Shop on Amazon →
Paid affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Suggested Repair

Clear the stored codes after the parts already replaced, then clean the fuel system and injectors, preferably with a pressurized cleaner. A lean condition can come from clogged injectors rather than the oxygen sensor, and code 538 may result from an incomplete test.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1995 Ford Escort reported that it starts, runs for about four minutes, then stalls. Scanner codes were 172, indicating a lean condition on bank 1, and 538, indicating insufficient RPM change. The owner had already replaced the air filter, fuel filter, fuel pump, oxygen sensor, MAF sensor, IAC valve, and related gaskets. The expert said code 172 means the engine is running lean and that code 538 may simply reflect an improperly run test. The expert advised confirming that the codes were cleared after repairs and recommended cleaning the fuel system and injectors, noting that clogged injectors can cause the lean condition.

Add a reply
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 new question

Frequently Asked Problems for This Vehicle