Engine & DrivetrainEngines and Drivetrains can be a major problem for a lot of vehicles. If you are having engine or drivetrain problems, you can post your questions/concerns about the issue. Furthermore, if you are in the process of doing an engine rebuild, post your progress with pictures.
I am new to ford forums. I am the owner of a 2003 Thuderbird that I bought new and have driven for just over 40k miles. It periodically goes into protected (did I get the phrase right?) mode where it is running on 4 cylinders. One or more dashboard symbols also light up. Usual display is an open end wrench or the outline of an engine. When I shut the car off and then restart the motor, it runs normally. Each time I go to a garage to have the code read, it indicates something different.
Now here is my question. Can the computer be programmed to NOT go into protected mode? I think the dashboard symbols are sufficient. How does one program the computer? Is it something any mechanic can do? Is it something I can do? What tools are needed.
Shopping for new Ford can be a stressful experience especially if you don't have the right information. Our new car research center at CarEverything.com can help relieve this stress and bring the joy back to new car buying!
The Car Blog, or TCB for those who are acronymically inclined, is alive because some of today's top Web designers needed a place to drool and bitch about their motor vehicle obsessions.
Read the auto blog at Automotive.com to get the latest news and opinions, view the newest concept cars, and join discussions with auto experts from around the world.
'03 Thunderbird 
Hybrid Mode
