hey, all.

got a '95 aerostar 3.0L with 160k miles throwing a 212 code. i know what it means but i just can't pinpoint the issue.

the story: the van was running fine until the distributor went out. wouldn't start so i took proper measures to diagnose the issue. in addition to the distributor, i also changed out the ignition coil and ignition control module. it was only AFTER installing all this did the van start doing funny things and giving the 212.

the symptoms: in park or neutral, it revs sporadically at idle -- like i'm pressing down the gas for a split second and then letting go. RPMs drop so low it almost dies. this is especially bad when cold. once in gear, it's smooth idling/running.

my attempts: after looking here OBD-1 Trouble Code 212 on a 1995 Ford Aerostar 3.0 ... - JustAnswer i tried the suggestions. SPOUT connector is good. there are no breaks/shorts/open harness that i've been able to spot. my only guess is the powertrain control module is faulty.
i've retraced my repair steps and everything i touched in the process and all is well. but i can't imagine the PCM just up and crapped out on me randomly (though i tend to have such mechanical "luck" so anything is possible).

*just for kicks, i disconnected the negative battery terminal for an hour and upon restart the issue was non-existant. then i went for a 5 minute drive, shut it down, restarted and the issue started all over again.

anyone have ideas? many thanks in advance for your consideration/advice.

 

That 212 code says the ign diagnostic monitor is not being sent to the ecm. I suspect you bought an aftermarket module and they can be troublesome.
Check all the plug in connections before changing any parts and if you have the old module, not knowing why you replaced it, try that one if it is still good.

Keep in mind many aftermarket parts are not made in this country and are pure junk.