Maverick ECU error message 143

[Sugref]

Does anyone know what the error message 143 from a 2.5 petrol Maverick's ECU means? The engine management warning light keeps flashing and the engine seems to be over-fueling, so it could be the lamda sensor. Strangely, the immobiliser light keeps flashing after the engine is started.

 

[Toolbox]

Hi Sugref,

What year is your Mav?

If it is new enough it will be OBD2 the code P0143 is the Oxygen sensor low voltage that could be cause by an exhaust leak, or a wiring short to earth or a faulty sensor. Quite often just by removing and cleaning the sensor will overcome the problem.

 

[Sugref]

Hi Jeremy,
It's a 1995 model. I thought there might be a problem with the oxygen sensor and I guess that would cause the over-fuelling. Thanks.

 

[Toolbox]

If it’s a 1995 then it wont be OBD2 and as far as I am aware there is no code 143. How did you retrieve the code?
There is a code 43 that relates to the throttle position sensor.

 

[Sugref]

Code retrieved by bridging two terminals in multi-plug in driver's footwell and counting long and short flashes from engine management warning light. I've had to replace a catalytic converter after two years and I'm assuming this has something to do with it.

 

[Toolbox]

I thought there were only 2 digit codes on earlier petrol’s.

If you have changed the cat then, really its good practice to change the oxygen sensor anyway.