2002-2005 Thunderbird Electronic Control Modules – PCMs, ECMs, FEMs, ‘Auntie Em’ … Are you confused yet?
The 2002-2005 Ford Thunderbird, like many new cars and trucks, is loaded with a bewildering array of electronics and computerized ‘control modules’ that handle just about every aspect of the car. When one or more of these modules malfunctions or fails altogether, a driver can find him or herself without lights, ignition, power windows, A/C or a dozen other problems … all related to one of the computer control modules.
Here’s a list of the various modules on the 2002-2005 Thunderbird:
Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Restraints Control Module
ABS Control Module
Front Electronic Module
Rear Ambient Lighting Control Unit
Remote Keyless Entry Module
Instrument Cluster Module
Electronic Automatic Temperature Control Module
In addition to these modules there are also three fuse/junction boxes: one located under the hood on the passenger side, one inside the cabin in the passenger side footwell, and one in the trunk inside the spare tire storage well.
If your Thunderbird begins having problems with any electronic components, including lights, stereo, cruise control, power windows, door locks or the horn starts honking, check your battery first. ( Hnt: you won’t find it under the hood. The Thunderbird’s battery is located in the trunk, under the liner that covers the spare tire). A weak or dead battery is often the cause for problems that are mistakenly blamed on a faulty control module. Ford dealers and independent repair shops have been known to recommend an expensive repair or replacement of a computer module before verifying if the problem is related to a bad battery. If the first dealer or shop you try gives you an expensive repair quote, get a second opinion. Ask friends or other Thunderbird owners for a referral to a reliable, knowledgeable mechanic or Ford dealer. Online forums and information sites such as Thunderbird Nest and Porthole Authority offer lots of advice, information and resources to identify, troubleshoot and repair many common problems.
Another possible and common problem is dirt or corrosion on the contacts of the control module itself. Make sure you or your mechanic or Ford dealer checks these contacts and connections before selling you a new computer module. Sometimes a simple cleaning of the contacts and connections can solve the problem.
If the problem is due to a faulty control module, they are both expensive and hard to find. I’ve heard from numerous Thunderbird owners who have had their cars stuck in a dealer’s service bay for weeks while the service or parts department searches for the correct replacement part. Due to the age of the 2002-2005 Thunderbird, which are now 10-13 years old, finding OEM parts, especially electronic control modules, can be difficult. If you need one, and don’t want to pay dealer prices, or if your dealer can’t find one (Ford and Lincoln/Mercury dealers will only use genuine OEM Ford or Ford-approved aftermarket replacement parts), you have a few options: First, do an online search for the part you need … make sure you have the correct name or better yet, the actual part number, to make sure you’re shopping for the correct part. If you can’t find a new part, there are a number of companies who rebuilt, refurbish or remanufacture existing automotive computer control modules. These companies can be found online also. Most have what is referred to as a ‘core charge’ if you don’t supply your defective module in exchange. Prices for new and rebuilt/refurbished computer control modules can vary widely.
We’re Here to Help! – If you’re confused about which module you need, or are discouraged by your Ford dealer’s high prices for OEM replacement parts, give us a call at 310-589-1000 or e-mail us at: info@thunderbirdspecialties.com. We can help you find whatever you need for your 2002-2005 Thunderbird. We specialize in locating hard-to-find, discontinued and out-of-production Thunderbird parts!
