U3278 Ford Expedition Diagnostic Trouble Code

U3278 Ford Expedition code definition:
U3278 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic U-Network Diagnostic Trouble Code for Ford Expedition.

U3278 Ford Expedition is a DTC or a diagnostic trouble code. It is a check engine light code which indicates that the catalyst's system efficiency is less than the required threshold. In simple terms, it means that more pollution is added into the air than what was supposed to be because of your car. As you drive and when specific conditions are slowly met, the vapors will gradually purge from the charcoal canister and will get burned within your engine.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a U3278 Ford Expedition diagnostic trouble code may include:

Misfire
Misfire
The light may stay on or light intermittently as the DPF regenerates. The engine will be sluggish on acceleration.
Hesitation upon acceleration

Possible Causes :

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.
Dirty air cleaner element Damaged DPF
An air leak forward of the DPF will change the sensor readings resulting in the code

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 :

Check to make sure they are not burnt or corroded. If in doubt, get some Electrical Contact cleaner at any parts store if cleaning of the terminals is needed. Look for damage to the tank indicating impact that may have damaged the fuel pump or sender.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code U3278 Ford Expedition 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 U3278 Ford Expedition.

Fortunately, U3278 Ford Expedition is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.