Questions and Answers

Ford Taurus Crazy Electrical Problems Q. Hi, I have a problem with my... 1997 Ford Taurus 6.0 liter MFI Automatic transmission 86,000 miles I believe it has ABS P/S, A/C, Cruise control

My problem is this: The Door ajar light keeps coming on. It happened a few times then went off, but now it stays on almost all the time. When it goes off I go around and open and close all 4 doors several times but it doesn't go back on. Sometimes it goes on when I am driving down the road, or when any door opens sometimes it doesn't.

It is just driving me crazy trying to figure out what door is making it happen, there is no rhyme or reason to the problem, however the rear drivers side electric windows also seems to have a mind of it's own, too. Sometimes it works sometimes it doesn't.

Another problem I have is the Check Engine Light is also on, checked everything from fluid levels to alternator output nothing wrong. Went and had the codes read came up with "Shift Solenoid", whatever that is, someone told me that it could be an oxygen sensor on the catalytic converter.

I also noted that a few times with the key out of the ignition the glove box light did not come on when the box door opened, but as soon as I put the key in the ignition, without turning the switch, the light would come on as advertised. Cigarette lighter doesn't work either.

One more thing; It also has vanishing coolant, checked for leaks, fluid in the oil, fluid in the transmission, fluid on the ground, in the passenger compartment everything checks good. Filling it about every two weeks or less. I am very frustrated with this car, can you help me?

Lou

A. As far as the electrical problems go, I have a feeling they are due to a bad ignition switch. There are too many things acting funny at the same time and all get power from the ignition switch. The fact that you put the key in the ignition and things start working tends to support that theory.

As for the Check Engine Light, I would need to know the code.

Well, if it's not leaking out of the engine, it's leaking into the engine. If it's not in the oil, then it is going into the cylinders and getting burned. Remove the spark plugs and look at the porcelain tips. If they are white as paper, it is an indication of coolant burning.

At this point I would have the cooling system pressure tested with the plugs out. It is possible you have a blown head gasket.