I have a 2014 Ford Explorer Ltd, 3.5L V6. We bought it two years ago, and it’s been nonstop problems. About 10 months ago, it started running rough, high RPMs, shifting hard, and the check engine light came on with 420 and 430 codes. Took it to the dealership for diagnostics ($200 later) and got a $9,000 repair estimate.
My husband’s done most of the work himself to save money. A month and a half ago, we replaced the catalytic converters and all four oxygen sensors. But instead of clearing the codes, now there are more, and it’s running rich—I can smell gas when it’s running. We’re at our wits’ end. We’ve got five kids (two with special needs) and can’t keep pouring money into this truck. It’s one thing after another.
Here’s what we’ve done recently: replaced fuel injectors, spark plugs, battery, O2 sensors (NTK), and cats (all OEM). Now we have these codes: HO2S (heater resistance bank 1 sensor 1), P0306 (cylinder 6 misfire), P2198 (O2 sensor signal stuck rich bank 2 sensor 1), P2237 (O2 sensor control circuit open bank 1 sensor 1), P219A/B (air/fuel imbalance both banks), and the original 420 and 430 (catalyst efficiency below threshold).
West said:
Could any wiring have been messed with?
The only thing I touched was the terminal box on the battery. Changed it last week.
When doing all that work (cats, O2 sensors, etc.), it’s easy to knock something loose. If both cats failed, there’s probably a root cause. Just because the codes say something doesn’t mean that’s the problem.
I wouldn’t recommend that… someone could get hurt!
The problem with codes is they aren’t always straightforward. For example, you replaced the O2 sensors, but the O2 codes are still there. Misfire codes, in particular, can have tons of causes and might trigger other codes, which leads to wasted money with no results.
It’s okay to let go of a vehicle that’s draining you. Your husband has done a lot of great work, but maybe it’s time to stop. Money doesn’t grow on trees. I hope others share their advice, too. Keep us updated on what you decide.
Tell him he’s already fired the “parts cannon” at this thing, and it still wants more. It’s not about him failing. Let him know it’s okay to move on and use the money for something more important. Good luck, and let us know how it turns out.
