PT malfunction / reduced power

[DaveP]

My OBX has been getting the PT malfunction / reduced power message a lot lately. It usually happens when ascending a grade (which is where I really need the turbo), so it's a hindrance when it happens (since it's hard to reach freeway speed after the turbo shuts off). I took my BS to the dealer a while back. They told me they couldn't reproduce the issue (which was odd, since FordPass showed the message popping up while it was in their possession). They did notice my water pump was leaking, so it was replaced. I was also told they'd upgrade the PCM to latest level (though paperwork made it sound like I already had it). Anyway, shortly after picking it up, I got the message again, so obviously not fixed.

I am scheduled to take it in next week, so I wanted to better understand the intent of the message. I assume it's intended to protect the system (since it derates the turbo)...is that correct? What are the input signals that trigger the message? I'm guessing my turbo isn't really the issue, and that an erroneous signal is likely triggering it. I figured maybe either a sensor is faulty, or else something like a seal leak may be making a sensor THINK there's an issue. If anyone can give me insights, I hope to let the dealership know what to look for.

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[johnardsg]

Had a similar turbocharger fail in this thread: https://www.broncosportforum.com/forum/threads/turbocharger-failure.10830/

The error in mine went away so dealer just went in and checked diags for errors and mine was p3402 which was the deactivate solenoid. They replaced that and no fail so far. Hopefully they can figure out your BS’ issue.

 

[Ford Motor Company]

My OBX has been getting the PT malfunction / reduced power message a lot lately. It usually happens when ascending a grade (which is where I really need the turbo), so it's a hindrance when it happens (since it's hard to reach freeway speed after the turbo shuts off). I took my BS to the dealer a while back. They told me they couldn't reproduce the issue (which was odd, since FordPass showed the message popping up while it was in their possession). They did notice my water pump was leaking, so it was replaced. I was also told they'd upgrade the PCM to latest level (though paperwork made it sound like I already had it). Anyway, shortly after picking it up, I got the message again, so obviously not fixed.

I am scheduled to take it in next week, so I wanted to better understand the intent of the message. I assume it's intended to protect the system (since it derates the turbo)...is that correct? What are the input signals that trigger the message? I'm guessing my turbo isn't really the issue, and that an erroneous signal is likely triggering it. I figured maybe either a sensor is faulty, or else something like a seal leak may be making a sensor THINK there's an issue. If anyone can give me insights, I hope to let the dealership know what to look for.

Hey there. Can you send a message with your VIN and estimated mileage? I would like to take a closer look at your Bronco's issues on my end!

 

[Mark S.]

so I wanted to better understand the intent of the message. I assume it's intended to protect the system (since it derates the turbo)...is that correct? What are the input signals that trigger the message? I'm guessing my turbo isn't really the issue, and that an erroneous signal is likely triggering it. I figured maybe either a sensor is faulty, or else something like a seal leak may be making a sensor THINK there's an issue. If anyone can give me insights, I hope to let the dealership know what to look for.

The "reduced power" condition is indeed meant to protect the engine, and as you surmise involved reducing boost pressure from the turbine (among other measures). Because of the number of different--and unrelated--issues that could result in the malfunction you are seeing, there is no possible way for anyone on this forum to remotely diagnose the cause. The dealership will run a diagnostic procedure based on the indication(s) and/or stored trouble codes.

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