Are you a Ford Edge owner who’s recently noticed the dreaded “wrench light” on your dashboard? If so, you may be wondering what this warning sign means and how it may impact your vehicle.
In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about the wrench light on Ford Edge vehicles. From its possible causes to troubleshooting tips and next steps, this article will serve as a comprehensive resource for Ford Edge owners dealing with the wrench light. So, let’s get started!
What does the wrench check light mean on Ford Edge?
Before we delve into possible causes and solutions for the wrench light, it’s important to understand what this warning sign represents. The wrench light is typically displayed on your dashboard when there is an issue with your vehicle’s powertrain or transmission system.
This could indicate a variety of problems, some minor and easily fixable, while others may require more extensive repairs. Regardless, it’s important not to ignore this warning sign and take action in order to prevent any further damage to your vehicle.
Common causes of the wrench light on Ford Edge
Now that you know what the wrench light means, let’s explore some of the most common reasons why it may be appearing on your Ford Edge dashboard. This can help you narrow down the issue and determine whether you can attempt to troubleshoot it yourself or if a trip to the mechanic is necessary.
- Low Transmission Fluid
- Faulty Throttle Body
- Malfunctioning Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) Sensor
- Electrical Issues
- Transmission System Malfunction
- Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Failure
Low Transmission Fluid
One of the most common causes of the wrench light coming on is low transmission fluid.
The transmission system is crucial for your vehicle’s functioning, as it transfers the power from the engine to the wheels. Low transmission fluid can lead to serious issues, including transmission failure, if not addressed promptly.
To check your transmission fluid level, follow these simple steps:
- Park your Ford Edge on a flat surface and ensure the engine is at operating temperature.
- Locate the transmission dipstick under the hood. It is usually labelled with a red or yellow handle.
- Pull out the dipstick and wipe it clean with a cloth or paper towel.
- Reinsert the dipstick fully into its tube, then pull it out again.
- Check the level of fluid on the dipstick. If it is below the “full” mark, you will need to add more transmission fluid.
It is important to use only the type of transmission fluid specified in your owner’s manual. Adding the wrong type can lead to further damage.
If you find that your Ford Edge consistently has low transmission fluid, it may indicate a leak in the system. In this case, it is best to have a professional mechanic inspect and repair the issue.
If the wrench light continues to come on after adding transmission fluid, it may indicate a different issue that should be addressed by a mechanic. However, low transmission fluid is a common and easily fixable problem that can prevent more serious issues down the road.
Faulty Throttle Body
Another potential cause for the wrench light coming on is a faulty throttle body. The throttle body controls the amount of air that flows into the engine, which affects its performance. If there is an issue with the throttle body, it can result in decreased fuel efficiency and overall power.
How to inspect: To check if the throttle body is faulty, you can do a visual inspection for any signs of damage or wear. Additionally, you can use an OBD-II scanner to read any error codes related to the throttle body.
How to fix: To fix this issue, the throttle body may need to be cleaned or replaced.
To clean or replace the throttle body on your Ford Edge, first locate it under the hood. It is typically located near the air intake system and connected to the engine with a large hose. Before attempting any maintenance, make sure the engine is cool and disconnected from power.
To clean the throttle body, use a specialized cleaner designed for this purpose. Carefully spray it onto the throttle body and use a clean cloth to wipe away any built-up grime or debris.
For replacement, consult your owner’s manual for the specific steps needed for your vehicle.
Electronic Throttle Control Failure
Another possible cause of the wrench light appearing on your Ford Edge is an issue with the electronic throttle control system. This system uses sensors and a computer to control the throttle body and regulate engine performance.
How to inspect: Similar to checking for a faulty throttle body, you can use an OBD-II scanner to read any error codes related to the electronic throttle control system.
How to fix: If your Ford Edge is experiencing issues with the electronic throttle control system, you may see an error code appear on your dashboard, along with the wrench light. This could indicate a range of problems, such as a malfunctioning sensor or a faulty computer.
- P2100: Throttle Actuator Control Motor Circuit/Open
- P2112: Throttle Actuator Control System – Stuck Closed
- P2119: Throttle Actuator Control Throttle Body Range/Performance
- P2135: Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch A/B Voltage Correlation 1-Dec
If you encounter any of these or other related error codes, it is best to consult a professional mechanic for proper diagnosis and repair.
Depending on the error code, you may need to replace a sensor or have the system reprogrammed by a professional mechanic. It is not recommended to attempt any repairs on this complex system if you are not experienced in automotive maintenance.
Malfunctioning Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) Sensor
In some cases, the wrench light on your Ford Edge may also be triggered by a faulty APP sensor.
This sensor is responsible for communicating the position of the accelerator pedal to the engine control module (ECM). If it is not functioning properly, it can cause issues with acceleration and trigger the wrench light.
How to inspect: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for error codes related to the APP sensor. If none are found, you can further inspect the sensor by visually checking for any damage or loose connections.
- P2122: Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch D Circuit Low
- P2123: Throttle/Pedal Position Sensor/Switch D Circuit High
If you see either of these error codes, it is likely due to a malfunctioning APP sensor. The sensor may be sending incorrect signals to the ECM, causing issues with acceleration.
How to fix: If the sensor is damaged or has loose connections, it will need to be replaced. Consult a professional mechanic for proper diagnosis and repair.
How to fix: The sensor will need to be replaced. It is not recommended to attempt this repair without proper knowledge and experience in automotive maintenance. Consult a professional mechanic for diagnosis and repair.
Electrical Issues
Electrical issues can also cause the wrench light to turn on in your Ford Edge. This can include faulty wiring, loose connections, or a malfunctioning control module.
How to inspect: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any error codes related to electrical issues. If there are no error codes present, visually inspect the wiring and connections for any signs of damage or looseness.
Some common error codes related to electrical issues that may trigger the wrench light on your Ford Edge include P2111, P2104, and P2112.
These codes indicate a problem with the throttle actuator control system, which can be caused by faulty wiring or a malfunctioning electronic throttle body.
Other possible error codes related to electrical issues that may cause the wrench light to turn on in a Ford Edge include:
- P0606: Control Module Processor
- U0101: Lost Communication with TCM
- P2112: Throttle Actuator Control System – Stuck Closed
- U0121: Lost Communication with ABS Control Module
- B1318: Battery Voltage Low
How to fix: If the issue is related to faulty wiring or loose connections, these will need to be repaired or replaced. For more complex issues with the control module, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic for proper diagnosis and repair.
Transmission System Malfunction
Some Ford Edge models may experience a transmission system malfunction, which can also trigger the wrench light to turn on. This issue is often accompanied by a “Transmission Fault Service Now” message on the dashboard.
How to inspect: If your wrench light is on and you suspect it may be related to the transmission system, there are a few steps you can take to inspect the issue.
First, check the transmission fluid level and colour. Low levels or dark, burnt-looking fluid could indicate a problem with the transmission.
Next, check for any leaks or damage to the transmission lines and connections.
Finally, if these visual inspections don’t reveal any obvious issues, it’s best to take your vehicle to a certified mechanic for further diagnosis.
How to fix: Unfortunately, fixing a transmission system malfunction can be a complicated and costly process. It’s best to leave this task to a trained mechanic who has the necessary tools and expertise to diagnose and repair the issue. Depending on the specific problem, they may need to replace certain components or perform more in-depth repairs.
In some cases, a software update from Ford may also be required to resolve the issue. It’s important to address this problem as soon as possible, as driving with a malfunctioning transmission can potentially cause further damage and safety hazards.
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Failure
In some cases, the wrench light on your Ford Edge may be triggered by a failure of the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). This is the computer system that controls various functions in your vehicle, including the transmission. If this is the case, it’s crucial to have a certified mechanic replace or reprogram the PCM to resolve the issue and ensure safe driving.
How to inspect: If you suspect that a failure of the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is causing the wrench light to illuminate on your Ford Edge, there are a few steps you can take to confirm this.
First, use an OBD-II scanner or code reader to check for any error codes related to the PCM. If there are any codes present, this could indicate an issue with the PCM.
Additionally, you can visually inspect the PCM for any physical damage or signs of corrosion.
One common error code that may be triggered by a failure of the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is P061B. This code indicates an issue with the internal memory of the PCM and can potentially cause the wrench light to turn on.
Some other error codes that may appear when there is a failure of the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) include:
- P0600: PCM Failure
- P0601: Internal Control Module Memory Checksum Error
- P0602: Control Module Programming Error
- P0603: Internal Control Module Keep Alive Memory (KAM) Error
- P0604: Internal Control Module Random Access Memory (RAM) Error
There are a few options for fixing a Powertrain Control Module (PCM) failure that is causing the wrench light to illuminate.
If the PCM is still functioning, it may be possible to reprogram it using specialized software and equipment. This should only be done by a certified mechanic or dealership with the proper tools and knowledge.
If the PCM is beyond repair, it will need to be replaced entirely. This can be a costly process, but it is important for the safe and efficient operation of your vehicle. It’s important to note that when replacing the PCM, it must be programmed specifically for your Ford Edge to ensure compatibility.
FAQs
Can you drive with the wrench light Ford Edge on?
While it is possible to drive with the wrench light on, it is not recommended. The wrench light indicates an issue with the powertrain system, which can affect the performance and safety of your vehicle. It’s best to address the issue as soon as possible to avoid potential further damage.
How do you reset the wrench light on a Ford Edge?
To reset the wrench light, you will need to clear the error code from the PCM.
This can be done by using a diagnostic scanner or disconnecting the car’s battery for a few minutes.
However, keep in mind that this may not fully resolve the underlying issue and the light may reappear if the problem is not addressed.
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to reset the wrench light on a Ford Edge:
- Locate the diagnostic port: The diagnostic port is usually located under the steering wheel, near the pedals.
- Connect the scanner: Plug in the diagnostic scanner to the port and turn on your Ford Edge’s ignition.
- Scan for error codes: Use the scanner to scan for error codes and identify the issue causing the wrench light to turn on.
- Clear the error code: Once the issue has been identified, you can use the scanner to clear the error code from the PCM.
- Disconnect battery (optional): If you do not have a diagnostic scanner, you can also try disconnecting your car’s battery for a few minutes. This will also clear the error code from the PCM.
- Reconnect the battery and start the car: After a few minutes, reconnect the battery and start your Ford Edge to see if the wrench light has turned off.
Wrench light on Ford Edge 2007-2014 models
If you own a 2007-2014 Ford Edge, the wrench light may turn on due to a faulty throttle body.
In this case, simply resetting the wrench light will not fully resolve the issue and it is recommended to replace the throttle body.
However, if you are experiencing any hesitation or stalling while driving, it is important to get your car inspected by a professional mechanic.
Wrench light on Ford Edge 2015 and newer models
On newer models of Ford Edge, the wrench light may turn on due to issues with the electronic power-assisted steering (EPAS) system.
The EPAS system is a modern type of power steering that uses electric motors to assist with steering instead of hydraulic pumps. This system offers improved fuel efficiency and allows for more precise control over the vehicle’s steering.
However, issues with the EPAS system can cause the wrench light to turn on in newer Ford Edge models. These issues may include faulty sensors, wiring problems, or a malfunctioning control module.
If the wrench light turns on due to EPAS issues, it is recommended to take your Ford Edge to a certified mechanic for diagnosis and repair.
Attempting to reset the wrench light without addressing the underlying issue may only provide a temporary solution and could potentially lead to further damage.