Section 15 (Engine Controls - Basic Testing - Gasoline): Introduction
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1998 Ford Crown Victoria. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The following diagnostic steps will help prevent overlooking a simple problem. This is also where to begin diagnosis for a no-start condition.
The first step in diagnosing any driveability problem is verifying the symptom(s) with a test drive under the conditions the problem reportedly occurred.
Before entering self-diagnostics, perform a careful and complete visual inspection. Most engine control problems result from poor electrical connections, damaged/misrouted vacuum hoses or mechanical breakdowns. Before condemning the computerized system, perform each test listed in this article.