i have a 92 mustang lx 2.3 the code with engine running is a 998 reads as --Engine control system operating in Failure Mode and Effects Management(fmem) programming strategy, next code is 218----Iginition system ( distributorless) problem- loss of left side ignition diagnositc monitor (idm) signal. what do these codes mean if anyone can help i'd appreciate it

thanks

 

does this mean the main computer is bad? still no help?

 

being a 92 it has electronic ignition, as well, it has 2 spark plugs for each cylinder correct? this means you have 2 distributors, i am guessing that the one that controls the LEFT side has some kind of computer in it that returns a signal to the ECU telling it what it is doing. now im guessing the engine still runs, so im not sure of what could be wrong with it exactly, maybe check that the connectors for the electronic distributor isnt corroded? im not familiar enough with electronic ignition, but i assume both distributors are identical? if so try switching all the wires, and see if you get a code for the right side, then you know theres something wrong with the distributor. this is all a guess, ive never worked firsthand on anything with electronic ignition. good luck
p.s. my service manual says that code 998's probable cause is "hard fault present" im not sure what this means, maybe it will help?

 

well it has two coil packs.. i have found a site that explains codes a little more but still briefly.. the 218 says coil pack is bad.. the 998 states that the key on engine off test didnt pass so i guess i have to start over maybe replace the coil packs first tho.. any other info big help thanks

 

well i tried a coil pack on the right side which it said it was. passed the koeo test but still throws codes indicating the left side coil pack is bad. actually on this particular engine there are 8 plugs but 4 are on the intake side and 4 are on the exhaust side. guess i'll purchase another coil pack and see what happens next