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Ford Explorer 2002 4.0L: P1400 to P0113/P0118/P0123/P0453/P0708 After DPFE Sensor Removal

Model: Explorer Fault Code: P0113 Posted: 2007-11-02 12:56

Hi everyone, I'm new here and hoping for some advice. I own a 2002 Ford Explorer with a 4.0L engine. I recently encountered a P1400 diagnostic trouble code (DTC), which I resolved by removing the DPFE (Differential Pressure Feedback Emission) sensor to replace it. However, while the sensor was disconnected, I started the vehicle for about 10 seconds before shutting it off. After reconnecting the sensor, I found that the truck failed to start smoothly and now displays several new codes: P0113, P0118, P0123, P0453, and P0708. All of these are high-input-related codes. My question is: Did this unintended engine startup without the DPFE sensor cause permanent damage to any sensors or the ECM? Note: The original P1400 code has since disappeared. I've cleared the codes multiple times, and while the vehicle runs, I notice issues such as excessively high idle speed, poor transmission shifting, no reading on the water temperature gauge, and a continuously flashing OD light. These symptoms have led me to suspect possible ECM malfunction—does anyone else see this pattern? Any insights or troubleshooting steps would be greatly appreciated.

Related fault codes
P0113P0118P0123P0708P1400
Comments (7)
Anonymous 2007-11-02 15:02

It's highly unlikely that removing the DPFE sensor caused all these codes. Check if any fuses have blown. Did you install the correct DPFE sensor? Have you verified that the MAF and snorkel are properly installed? Are there any other electrical connections left disconnected?

Anonymous 2007-11-02 15:12

Which fuse could be involved? I reinstalled the same DPFE sensor without touching anything else. I've cleared the codes multiple times. During a test drive, I noticed the idle is too high, transmission shifts poorly, the water temperature gauge shows no reading, and the OD light keeps flashing—clear signs of system malfunction. After researching various forums, I'm now considering that the ECM might be faulty—what do you think?

Anonymous 2007-11-03 05:58

Unlikely. Where did you source your DPFE sensor? I've heard reports of similar issues when a DPFE sensor shorts internally during removal.

Anonymous 2007-11-03 07:10

I haven't purchased one yet—I'm about to head out to buy it this morning. Yesterday, I put the original sensor back in. If the old sensor was indeed shorted (as a hypothetical scenario), would simply replacing it fix all these issues? Thanks for the insight!

Anonymous 2007-11-03 07:19

Ah, that makes sense—if your old DPFE sensor was shorted, it could have disrupted engine management signals. Go to a dealership, purchase a new DPFE, install it, clear all codes, and monitor for any return of DTCs. Avoid jumping to conclusions about ECM failure or replacing the PCM unnecessarily.

Anonymous 2007-11-03 07:30

Got it—I'll follow your advice. I'll keep you updated on my progress. Thanks!

Anonymous 2007-11-04 11:25

Jeff Compton wrote: Ah, that makes sense—if your old DPFE sensor was shorted, it could have disrupted engine management signals. Go to a dealership, purchase a new DPFE, install it, clear all codes, and monitor for any return of DTCs. Avoid jumping to conclusions about ECM failure or replacing the PCM unnecessarily. I agree—my test confirms this. I removed the DPFE plug, cleared the codes, started the engine, and everything returned to normal with no new codes appearing. Tomorrow I'll head to the dealership to replace the sensor with a new one. Thanks for the help!