C3509 Ford Fairmont Diagnostic Trouble Code

C3509 Ford Fairmont code definition:
C3509 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic C-Chassis Diagnostic Trouble Code for Ford Fairmont.

C3509 Ford Fairmont is described as Oxygen Sensor Circuit No Activity Detected (Bank 1, Sensor 1). This means there's a problem in the front oxygen sensor on Bank 1, as the O2 sensor is inactive. The spark should have a light tan color. If the sensor probe comes with white and chalky parts, this means it has been lagging between switching phases, and should be replaced.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a C3509 Ford Fairmont diagnostic trouble code may include:

Diminished fuel efficiency
Fuel pressure too high
Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminated
Reduction in engine performance, especially at low RPM levels

Possible Causes :

Dirty air cleaner element Damaged DPF
A plugged converter will cause of host of driveability problems as well as set this code. A severely plugged converter will result in the inability to increase rpm when under load. Look for a code such as P0421 -- catalytic converter efficiency below threshold if the converter indicating a faulty converter.
Faulty IMRC actuator/sensor

Common Misdiagnoses

IC Circuit High Voltage Problem
Control Module Throttle Actuator Position Performance Problem
Air Conditioning (A/C) Clutch Feedback Circuit High Voltage Problem
Cruise Vehicle Speed/Set Speed Difference Too High Problem
PCM Stack Overrun Problem

Repair Processes :

Replace the oxygen sensor that is downstream from the catalytic converter on the side of the engine that does not contain cylinder #1. Also, if a oxygen sensor code stating "heater circuit malfunction" the sensor has most probably failed. Pack the connector cavity with dielectric silicone compound (same stuff they use for light bulb sockets and spark plug wires) and reassemble. Find out what kind of system you have and verify that voltage to the fuel level sensor is present at the fuel pump wiring harness.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code C3509 Ford Fairmont is not difficult to diagnose and repair. Thus, it always pays to have a qualified technician to look after your vehicle should this error code arise.

Diagnosing this code requires the engine to be in good running shape, without unmetered air entering the engine. If other codes that relates to misfiring condition, lean running or air entering the engine is present, then you must first fix those error codes before C3509 Ford Fairmont.

Fortunately, C3509 Ford Fairmont is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.