Delving into the complexities of your 2013 Ford F350 can sometimes feel like deciphering a secret language. While your truck might seem to be running smoothly on the surface, hidden issues can lurk beneath, impacting performance and longevity. Recently, using a professional-grade scan tool highlighted just how much a seemingly healthy Ford F350 can be concealing. If you’re a Ford F350 owner, especially of a 2013 model, understanding the diagnostic capabilities of different scan tools is crucial for effective troubleshooting. This experience underscores the significant advantages a factory-level scan tool, compared to a generic OBD2 scanner, offers when diagnosing your 2013 Ford F350.
The journey began with the arrival of a new NGS scan tool, a device promising deeper insights into vehicle health. Initially, emulating a generic scan tool mode yielded a deceptive “No DTCs found” message, creating a false sense of security. However, switching to the Ford-specific diagnostic mode unveiled a cascade of Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), painting a far more comprehensive – and concerning – picture of the truck’s condition. This stark contrast immediately highlighted a key benefit of investing in a robust scan tool specifically designed for vehicles like the 2013 Ford F350: the ability to access and interpret manufacturer-specific codes that generic scanners often miss.
The scan revealed a range of issues, categorized by their respective systems, providing a structured approach to diagnosis. Let’s explore the findings:
Body Control Module (BCM) Codes: Unmasking Seemingly Minor Issues
The BCM diagnostics revealed codes related to systems that appeared to be functioning normally, demonstrating the scan tool’s ability to detect subtle, underlying problems before they become overtly symptomatic.
- B1450 – Wiper Wash/Delay Circuit Failure: Despite the wipers and washers operating correctly during scan tool commanded tests and manual operation, this code indicated a potential circuit issue within the wiper system.
- B1438 – Wiper Mode Select Switch Circuit Failure: Similarly, this code suggested a fault in the wiper mode selection switch circuit, even though the switch itself seemed to be working as intended.
- B1576 – Lamp Park Input Circuit Open: This code was particularly puzzling, as all lights were functioning correctly. It pointed to an open circuit within the parking lamp system that wasn’t immediately apparent through visual inspection.
These B codes underscore the importance of not solely relying on outward functionality when troubleshooting. A dedicated scan tool can uncover hidden electrical gremlins that could lead to more significant problems down the road.
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Codes: Unveiling Performance and Electrical Concerns
The PCM diagnostics shed light on potential issues affecting engine performance, fuel delivery, and charging systems.
- B1203 – Fuel Sender Circuit Short to Battery: This code indicated a short circuit in the fuel sender system, a problem that could potentially affect fuel gauge accuracy and, in more severe cases, fuel pump operation.
- B2148 – Pulse Width Modulation Input Circuit Failure: This PWM circuit failure code suggests a problem with the electronic control signals managing various engine components, potentially impacting performance and efficiency.
- P1245 – Wastegate Control Valve Circuit Failure / Alternator Load Input Failed Low: This code presented conflicting descriptions. While some databases linked P1245 to the wastegate, the scan tool and other sources pointed towards alternator load issues. Further investigation would be needed to clarify the exact nature of this fault, especially given the subsequent alternator-related codes.
- P1105 – Dual Alternator Upper Fault & P1106 – Dual Alternator Lower Fault: These codes directly pointed to faults within the dual alternator system of the F350. Despite the voltmeter showing a normal charging voltage, these codes indicated underlying problems within the alternator system that could compromise its reliability and charging capacity over time.
These PCM codes highlight potential issues that, while not immediately causing driveability problems, could lead to decreased performance, fuel economy, and eventual system failures. The conflicting P1245 description emphasizes the need for a scan tool that provides access to accurate, manufacturer-specific DTC definitions.
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Codes: Addressing Safety-Critical Systems
The ABS diagnostics revealed a critical issue within the vehicle speed sensing system, a component vital for both ABS and overall vehicle control systems.
- C1230 – Speed Wheel Sensor Rear Center Input Circuit Failure: This chassis code indicated a failure in the rear center wheel speed sensor circuit.
- P0500 – Vehicle Speed Sensor Malfunction: Intriguingly, this powertrain code for VSS malfunction only appeared when testing the Overhead Trip Computer module, not during ABS or PCM tests. This discrepancy suggests a potential issue in how different modules are interpreting or reporting speed sensor data.
- P1670 – Electronic Feedback Signal Not Detected: This code further corroborated the VSS issue, indicating a problem with the feedback signal from an electronic system, likely related to the speed sensor or associated circuitry.
Despite the speedometer functioning normally, these VSS-related codes indicated a significant underlying problem within the ABS system. The fact that the speedometer worked while these codes were present highlights that the issue might be intermittent or affecting specific ABS functionalities not directly tied to speedometer operation. Ignoring these codes could compromise the effectiveness of the ABS and stability control systems, especially in critical driving situations.
Persistent Exhaust Issue: A Reminder of Past Problems
Finally, the scan confirmed a recurring issue that had been previously addressed but persisted:
- P0476 – Exhaust Pressure Control Valve Performance: Despite previous efforts to clean the exhaust back pressure sensor tube and even replace the sensor, this code returned. This persistence suggests a deeper, potentially mechanical or electrical issue within the exhaust pressure control system, beyond just sensor malfunction.
This recurring code serves as a reminder that some issues require more than just surface-level fixes. A comprehensive diagnostic approach, guided by a capable scan tool, is essential for identifying and resolving the root cause of persistent problems.
Choosing the Right Scan Tool for Your 2013 Ford F350
This diagnostic journey clearly illustrates the value of using a scan tool that goes beyond basic OBD2 functionality when troubleshooting a 2013 Ford F350. While generic scanners can read basic emissions-related codes, they often fall short in accessing manufacturer-specific codes and performing in-depth system tests. For comprehensive diagnostics, especially on Ford trucks like the F350, investing in a professional-grade scan tool, similar to the NGS used in this case, is highly recommended. These tools provide:
- Access to Ford-Specific DTCs: Uncover a wider range of codes beyond generic OBD2, leading to more accurate diagnoses.
- Enhanced System Testing: Perform advanced tests and commands to pinpoint the exact location and nature of faults.
- Accurate DTC Definitions: Receive manufacturer-specific descriptions of DTCs, reducing ambiguity and improving diagnostic accuracy.
For 2013 Ford F350 owners serious about maintaining their vehicles and tackling troubleshooting effectively, choosing the right scan tool is an investment in vehicle health and peace of mind. Understanding the difference between generic and professional-grade tools is the first step towards unlocking your truck’s secrets and ensuring its continued reliable performance.
