P026C Ford Tempo Diagnostic Trouble Code

P026C Ford Tempo code definition:
P026C is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic P-Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code for Ford Tempo.

P026C Ford Tempo is described as Fuel System Too Rich, which basically means bank 1's oxygen sensor has detected a rich condition of fuel. This means there's not enough oxygen in the exhaust from too much fuel being delivered into the air and gas mixture for combusion. 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 P026C Ford Tempo diagnostic trouble code may include:

Poor acceleration
Cherry red hot catalytic converter
Possible spark knock (detonation / pre-ignition)
Rich or lean exhaust

Possible Causes :

Faulty IMRC actuator relay (if equipped)
A large air leak at or near the number one oxygen sensor would also cause a lean mixture.
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.

Common Misdiagnoses

Exhaust Gas Recirculation System Valve 1 Problem
BBV Sensor Circuit Low Voltage Problem
Transmission Engaged At High Throttle Angle Problem
Cruise Inhibit Control Circuit Problem
TFP Valve Position Switch-Drive Without Drive Ratio Problem

Repair Processes :

Pack the connector cavity with dielectric silicone compound (same stuff they use for light bulb sockets and spark plug wires) and reassemble. Look for missing ground strap or a rusty ground where the fuel tank is grounded to the frame. Check for damage to the wiring harness connector.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code P026C Ford Tempo 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 P026C Ford Tempo.

Fortunately, P026C Ford Tempo is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.