Falcon (EA-AU)

1988-2002 / Sedan / Estate / Australia

All Falcon (EA-AU) problems All workshop issues

Common Electrical

Alternator Output Issues

Symptoms

Battery light on dash, dim lights, accessories misbehaving, battery going flat overnight.

Cause

The alternator wears with age. Output should be 13.8-14.4V at idle. Some replacement alternators come with a different pulley size, which affects output at idle. The wiring between alternator and battery can also develop high resistance from corrosion.

Fix

Test charging output with a multimeter.

Replace the alternator if output is below 13.5V at idle.

Ensure the correct pulley size is fitted.

Clean and tighten all battery and alternator cable connections.

Apply dielectric grease.

Cost: $150-300 for the alternator.

Cost mentioned in fix

Cost: $150-300 for the alternator

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Other known issues

Critical Electrical

Smartlock Immobiliser (EF onwards)

Engine cranks but won't start. An exclamation mark appears below the handbrake warning light on the dash. The fuel pump may prime (whine for 2 seconds) but the injectors won't fire.

Critical Electrical

Diagnostic Code Reading

The check engine light illuminates, but you need to read the fault codes.

Critical Engine

TFI Module Failure (EA-ED)

The engine cuts out while driving and won't restart. After cooling for 30-60 minutes, it may restart and run normally for a while before dying again. Sometimes fails permanently.

Common Engine

Hydraulic Lifter Tick (AU especially, all models)

A ticking or tapping noise from the top of the engine, often worst on cold start. May persist for minutes or be constant. The noise comes from the rocker cover area.

Common Engine

Coil Pack Failure (EF-EL)

Misfiring on specific cylinders, rough idle, loss of power. May be intermittent initially, then become constant.

Critical Engine

Crank Angle Sensor Failure (EA-ED)

Engine cranks but won't start, or starts and dies. No spark at all cylinders.

View all 21 Falcon (EA-AU) problems