When your car flashes the wrench light and does not accelerate, it is a tell-tell sign that something could be wrong with the powertrain control module. The best cause of action will be to call your mechanic to diagnose your vehicle.
However, there are different causes to why your car’s wrench light is on. This article will dive into everything you need to know about wrench lights and what it means for your Ford F150.
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What Does the Wrench Light Mean on a Ford f150?
The wrench light on a Ford F150 means that there is an issue with the powertrain control module, the PCM. The powertrain control module is the brain of the car. It receives and transmits information to all the parts of the car that enable it to move.
Because it is the car’s brain, it detects malfunctions in key components and sends a warning light to communicate with the driver.
Apart from issues with the engine, the wrench light could also indicate that your Ford has issues with low boosts and voltage levels. Irregularities with the required engine temperature could lead to the light, and simple issues like the need for an oil change could cause the wrench light to go on.
Several reasons could lead to the notification, which is why you need to contact your authorized Ford dealership to check out the issue to give the proper diagnosis.
The Wrench Symbol on Dashboard
The wrench symbol on your car’s dashboard is one of many symbols you are encouraged to act on for your car’s maintenance. The symbol is a green or yellow light that flashes with the image of a tiny wrench.
Once you see the light, your car is overdue for service, depending on your programmed mileage. Other times it could flicker even after service, meaning the mechanic forgot to reset the car’s mileage.
The wrench symbol could also indicate the need for an oil change or communicate that the car is low on voltage and boosts, which can be corrected with a thorough service.
Wrench Light’s Connection to Acceleration
As discussed earlier in the article, the wrench light message with no acceleration indicates an issue with the powertrain control module. The powertrain control module communicates with the car, which makes it move.
The powertrain control module reduces acceleration to reduce the stress exerted on it. Further stress on the powertrain control module leads to more damage to the car and, therefore, the need to reduce or eliminate acceleration.
Seeking the help of professional and authorized car dealerships will ultimately save your car from complete system failure.
Reasons the Light is Going Off With Loss of Acceleration
When you notice your car losing acceleration, it is advised to stop the car and call your mechanic. A term used to describe this is limp mode. Below are the reasons why your wrench light is going off with the car’s loss of acceleration:
Wiring of the Powertrain Control Module
The powertrain control module is the part of the car that controls all other functions. The drivetrain parts are connected to allow the car’s movement. When wired wrongly, the wrench light symbol could appear on the dashboard; this is an issue with drivetrain parts.
Air Intake
The throttle regulates air in and out of your car’s engine. A change in this process could lead to the wrench light going on and the loss of acceleration, making your car enter limp mode.
Need For Oil Change
A car running on old oil can lead to a wrench light warning. Many drivers overlook changing engine oil, which could lead your car into limp mode.
Overdue Car Service
Car service helps maintain the car’s battery, engine, and overall health. Regular car service is normally equated to health check-ups for people. Skipping a few car services could result in a wrench symbol message.
Mechanic or Car Dealership Faults
There are instances when the wrench light symbol can appear, and it has nothing to do with car issues. Your mechanic could fail to connect wires well or forget to reset the car’s mileage after a service causing the message to appear.
How To Fix Ford F150 Wrench Light
We are familiar with the reasons for the wrench light, now on to how to fix them:
Consult With Your Mechanic
Many people overlook the wrench light and choose not to act on it. However, once you experience the wrench light, reach out to your car dealerships or mechanic before your car goes into limp mode.
Schedule Consistent Car Services
Schedule and attend car service appointments to maintain your car’s general health. These services could unearth issues in your car that you were unaware of and could damage the car.
Change Engine Oil
Regular cleaning and changing the engine oil could completely change the state of your car, making it easy to drive and experiencing fewer car problems. Engine oil rejuvenates your car making it feel new and increasing its performance.
Correct Drive part Wiring
To ensure your driven parts are well wired, you need to educate yourself on the correct sequence of the wires. The drive parts control the car’s movements, and failure to wire the car correctly will lead to wrench light notifications.
Proper Maintained Throttle
The car’s throttle is a regulator for clean air in and out of the engine. The throttle must always be in good condition to effectively complete its job.
Can You Drive With the Wrench Light On?
You can drive with the wrench light on; however, it is not advised. The longer you drive with the wrench light, the more damage and pressure are exerted on the car. Driving with the wrench light on will lead to reduced acceleration, resulting in your car going into limp mode.
Your car’s maintenance and health rely on you. To be able to move and continue with your normal daily life requires you to take care of your car and never ignore warning lights like the wrench symbol.
