Quick Answer
C0E87 means: DTC C0E87 indicates a communication issue with the electronic control module in Ford vehicles.
Can I drive with C0E87? Immediate attention is required to avoid further electrical issues or safety risks.
Common Questions
What does C0E87 mean and how does it affect my car?
DTC C0E87 indicates a communication fault within your vehicle's electronic systems, primarily affecting the ECM. This malfunction can lead to performance issues, including erratic engine behavior and warning lights. If left unresolved, it may cause more significant problems over time.
What are the most common causes of C0E87 and how much does it cost to fix?
Common causes of C0E87 include a faulty ECM, failed sensors, or wiring issues. Repair costs can range from $150 for sensor replacements to $1,200 for ECM replacements, depending on the specific issue and vehicle model.
Can I drive my car with C0E87 or should I stop immediately?
It's recommended to address DTC C0E87 immediately. Driving with this code can compromise safety and performance, potentially leading to stalling or other serious issues. It's best to have your vehicle diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible.
How can I diagnose C0E87 myself using GeekOBD APP?
To diagnose C0E87 with the GeekOBD APP, connect the app to your vehicle's OBD2 port, retrieve the trouble codes, and review the freeze frame data for context. This information can guide you in identifying whether the issue lies within the ECM, sensors, or wiring.
What vehicles are most commonly affected by C0E87?
DTC C0E87 is most commonly found in 2015-2020 Ford F-150 models, but it can also affect other Ford vehicles equipped with similar electronic systems. Be sure to check for any recalls or service bulletins related to this code.
How can I prevent C0E87 from happening again?
To prevent a recurrence of DTC C0E87, ensure regular maintenance checks on your vehicle's electrical systems. Keep connectors clean and free of corrosion, and stay up-to-date with software updates provided by the manufacturer.
What is C0E87?
DTC C0E87 is a manufacturer-specific diagnostic trouble code that primarily affects vehicles manufactured by Ford, especially models like the 2015-2020 Ford F-150. This trouble code indicates a malfunction related to the vehicle's electronic control module (ECM) or a specific electronic component linked to the vehicle's systems. In real-world terms, this code usually signifies that the ECM has detected an issue with the communication between various control units or sensors, leading to potential performance issues. For car owners, this can manifest as erratic engine behavior, unexpected shutdowns, or warning lights on the dashboard. If left unresolved, C0E87 could lead to more severe electrical issues or a complete failure of critical systems, which could affect safety and drivability. It’s important to address this code promptly, as it can impact your vehicle's overall performance and reliability. For instance, the vehicle may exhibit hesitation during acceleration or display warning lights, which can be concerning for drivers. Regular diagnostics and timely repairs are essential to ensure your vehicle operates smoothly. Understanding the implications of DTC C0E87 can help you take proactive steps to avoid more costly repairs down the line.
System: C - Chassis (ABS, Steering, Suspension)
Symptoms
Common symptoms when C0E87 is present:
- The check engine light illuminates and remains on, indicating a persistent issue within the vehicle's electronic systems.
- The vehicle may experience hesitation during acceleration, which can be alarming and could impact your safety on the road.
- Fuel economy may decrease significantly, with drivers reporting a drop of 10-15% due to the engine not operating efficiently.
- Unusual engine noises may occur, particularly during startup or acceleration, indicating underlying electronic issues.
- The vehicle may intermittently stall or fail to start, leading to frustration and potential safety hazards.
Possible Causes
Most common causes of C0E87 (ordered by frequency):
- The most common cause of DTC C0E87 is a faulty electronic control module (ECM) or a related wiring issue, which can occur in approximately 60% of cases. This may involve corroded connectors or damaged wiring harnesses that disrupt communication.
- A second common cause is a failed sensor, such as the throttle position sensor or mass air flow sensor, which can send incorrect data to the ECM. This miscommunication can trigger the C0E87 code.
- Another potential cause is software issues in the ECM itself. Keeping the vehicle's software updated can prevent such problems from arising, as manufacturers frequently release updates to improve performance and fix bugs.
- Less commonly, issues with the vehicle's battery or alternator can cause voltage fluctuations that affect the ECM's ability to communicate properly, leading to this trouble code.
- In rare cases, a complete failure of the wiring harness can occur, which would require extensive repairs and diagnostics to locate the specific fault.
C0E87 Repair Costs
Cost Breakdown by Repair Type
ECM Replacement
Replacing a faulty electronic control module can resolve DTC C0E87.
- Total: $800 - $1,200
- Success rate: 85%
Sensor Replacement
Replacing a faulty sensor like the throttle position sensor or mass air flow sensor can fix the issue.
- Total: $150 - $400
- Success rate: 75%
Wiring Repair
Repairing or replacing damaged wiring can restore proper communication.
- Total: $100 - $300
- Success rate: 70%
Money-Saving Tips for C0E87
- Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
- Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
- Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
- Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
- Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage
Diagnostic Steps
Professional C0E87 Diagnosis Process
Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose C0E87. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion, which can take about 5-10 minutes
Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion, which can take about 5-10 minutes.
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Use the app to retrieve all codes and freeze frame data for a comprehensive view of the fault context, usually taking 10-15 minutes
Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Use the app to retrieve all codes and freeze frame data for a comprehensive view of the fault context, usually taking 10-15 minutes.
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Utilize a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test suspected components related to the ECM, which can take 20-30 minutes
Step 3: Component testing - Utilize a multimeter or specific diagnostic tools to test suspected components related to the ECM, which can take 20-30 minutes.
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation of the systems after repairs and clear codes, typically taking another 10-15 minutes
Step 4: System function test - Verify proper operation of the systems after repairs and clear codes, typically taking another 10-15 minutes.
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success, which should take about 15-20 minutes
Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to confirm repair success, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
Important Notes
- Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
- Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
- Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence
Real Repair Case Studies
Case Study 1: ECM Replacement for a 2017 Ford F-150
Vehicle: 2017 Ford F-150, 45,000 miles
Problem: Customer reported check engine light on and engine stalling intermittently.
Diagnosis: Conducted an OBD2 scan which revealed DTC C0E87. Inspected the ECM and wiring, finding corroded connections.
Solution: Replaced the ECM and repaired the wiring harness. Cleared codes and conducted a system function test.
Cost: $1,000 (parts: $800 for ECM, $200 for wiring repair)
Result: Post-repair, the vehicle runs smoothly with no further issues.
Case Study 2: Throttle Position Sensor Replacement on a 2018 Ford Explorer
Vehicle: 2018 Ford Explorer, 30,000 miles
Problem: Customer experienced hesitation during acceleration and check engine light illumination.
Diagnosis: DTC C0E87 was retrieved during diagnostics. Further testing indicated a faulty throttle position sensor.
Solution: Replaced the throttle position sensor and cleared the trouble codes.
Cost: $250 (parts: $150 for the sensor, $100 for labor)
Result: Vehicle performance improved significantly with no further symptoms.