Skip to content
MOTRS

Falcon (EA-AU)

1988-2002 / Sedan / Estate / Australia

All Falcon (EA-AU) problems All workshop issues
Common Engine

Rocker Cover Bolt Breakage

Symptoms

A rocker cover bolt snaps during routine maintenance, leaving the threaded portion stuck in the head.

Cause

The bolts are small and the aluminium head threads are soft. Over-torquing or corrosion causes the bolt to shear. Rocker cover bolt torque is 17 Nm, surprisingly light.

Fix

Use a screw extractor (easy-out) to remove the broken bolt.

If the threads are damaged, a helicoil repair is necessary.

Take extreme care during removal, if the broken bolt is forced and the thread strips, the head requires professional repair.

Know something we don't?

Owned a Ford Falcon (EA-AU)? Share your experience with this issue. What worked, what didn't, costs, tips. Help the community.

Submit an update
// More Falcon (EA-AU) problems

Other known issues

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.
Common Engine

Idle Speed Control (ISC) Valve Issues

Erratic idle speed, high idle (1,500+ rpm), stalling when coming to a stop, or inability to maintain idle.
Critical Fuel System

Fuel Pump Failure

Engine cranks but won't start. No fuel pressure at the rail. The fuel pump may be silent (normally an audible whine for 2 seconds when the ignition is turned to ON).
View all 21 Falcon (EA-AU) problems