Every month our technical team receives requests for help and advice about issues or problems that a garage is having with a particular vehicle. And every month we’ll share these proven fixes with everyone just in case we can help everyone else.
What’s the problem?
Citroen DS3: Spontaneous illumination of engine malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) while on road test.
While on road test with a customer’s 2015 DS 3 1,2 petrol, we have just serviced, the engine malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) unexpectedly illuminated. We found trouble code P0326 stored in the engine control module (ECM) fault memory, which relates to the knock sensor. We have not carried out any work in that vicinity and are not sure why the trouble code has occurred. We have checked the spark plugs we fitted during the service are the correct specification for the engine, which they are. We have also carried out some basic checks on the air and fuel systems but we haven’t found the cause of the fault. Any assistance you can provide to rectify this fault would be appreciated.
The fix
This is a fault with all on all DS 3 models with the HMZ (EB2F) engine code up to 06/12/15. The cause of the engine malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) illumination is due to an unsatisfactory design of the knock sensor (KS). To rectify the fault fit a new knock sensor (KS). Ensure the knock sensor (KS) retaining bolt is tightened to the correct torque setting. Erase the trouble code and carry out a road test to ensure the fault has been resolved.
What’s the problem?
Ford Mondeo: Vibration/rattle in passenger compartment while driving.
We have a customer with a 2014 Ford Mondeo who is complaining of a vibration/rattle in the passenger compartment whilst driving the vehicle. We have heard the rattling noise on road test but have been unable to source the cause of the fault in the workshop. We have visually checked the engine mountings and have repositioned the exhaust heat shields but cannot eradicate the vibration/rattle. Have any other Ford owners reported this type of vibration/rattle before?
The fix
We do have records which show a similar report affecting all Ford Mondeo models up to 03/15. The cause of the vibration/rattle is due to loose, unused underbody shield retaining clips. To rectify the vibration/rattle, remove and discard the unused underbody shield retaining clips If necessary, repeat the procedure for the opposite side. Carry out a road test to confirm the vibration/rattle has been eradicated.