94GT5.0

I just bought a code reader because my check engine light has been on and off for a while. Do we run 2 or 3 digit codes, the Ford manual says nothing about this. I am pretty sure the digits came in pairs of three, and I threw these codes.
#172; Heated Exhaust Gas Oxygen (HEGO) sensor - voltage signal indicates "lean" (Bank #1).
#136; Heated Exhaust Gas Oxygen (HEGO) sensor - voltage signal not switching during Engine-Run Self Test. Indicates "lean" (Bank #2)

Can someone confirm that my car runs 3 digit codes before I investigate this problem. I guess I will check for vaccum leaks and then check for problems along my fuel lines.

samseed101

It is a 3 digit code. You may have some bad O2 sensors that will need replacing... unless you really are running lean. But that's easy to check as well. And if everything seems fine and it's just tossing codes, then try replacing the sensors. It's fairly common for bad sensors to give those codes. But it is not quite as common to have it hit both banks at the same time.

94GT5.0

Well bad sensors wouldn't affect driveability would they? Because my car is still bucking around a lot during acceleration. I should have mentioned that above I guess. Accelerating and even taking off from a stop have been very rough and shaky lately.

samseed101

they can cause problems, especially when idling...but not as bad as what you are having. Given the symptoms above, you may want to check your lines like you said. Also make sure your fuel filter isn't clogged and make sure the pump and injectors are healthy. May be worth cleaning your IAC as well if you are having idle problems while stopped or anything like that. It's good maintainance and it only takes a few minutes to do.

samseed101

there are a lot fo ways to seeif you are really running lean. But personally I just go out and pull a few spark plugs and examine them. They are usually good indicators of how everything is running.

94GT5.0

Yea I am going to change my plugs in a few days and I can will check the condition of the old plugs. I will check my pump, filter and injectors and clean/replace them depending on what I see. This problem has been occuring since I first owned the car, only now its got worse. I can't wait to have a smooth running car, and doing the above should do the job. Thanks for the help samseed

PONY GUY

I wouldnt go an spend money on sensors right way , like recomended check you filter , IAC, Plugs , MAF , and do a presure test aswell thes are cheap and quick things that might save you a few buck and a good way to learn proper dianostics skill

Stiffclutch

where can i get a code reader? about how much do they cost? last but not least where do i plug it in on a 93 notch?

PX429

It's behind your shock tower. you can get it from autozone for about 30 bucks

Stiffclutch

thank you much