Wrench w/"Powertrain Malfunction / Reduced Power" notification

[mcypert09]

First time post. I have seen quite a few related to the wrench and the diagnostic notification sent to the FordPass app stating "Powertrain Malfunction / Reduced Power" message but not really any that I could find on the site similar to what I am seeing.

It started on my drive to work this morning while I was driving on the highway at approximately 75 mph and the wrench (not flashing appeared). I went out at lunch and drove on city streets for approximately 5 miles total at 30 mph with no wrench / notification. Then as you guessed, on my way home from work which is an approximately 20 - 25 minute drive, the wrench notification appeared again while driving on the highway about 1/2 the way home. There was no noticeable impact when driving, temperature and RPM appeared to be normal, and no other visual issues from what I could tell. When I got home, my Ranger was turned off so I could grab my Innova 3020RS FixAssist OBD2 Code Reader and as you can guess again there was no wrench warning light and the OBD2 scanner did not identify anything. I wasn't sure if the OBD2 would pick up anything if the fault data wasn't being sent to/from the ECU but wanted to try anyway but I don't think it matters since everything I reset the vehicle it seems to disappear.

I purchased my Ranger used with approximately 19,000 on it in March 2023 and now I have 47,696 miles on it. At times (mostly initially after cold starting), the xmsn shifting does seem to be a little clunky but seems to go away as the xfer case and xmsn warm up and I have always contributed this to the inter-workings of these components (which is also why when I start I try to ease on the acceleration / pedal).

So starting to panic a bit here thinking it is xmsn related but also don't want to assume that based on what I have read on here since owning the Ranger (this is a great site and forum by the way). I really like the truck and no issues I have experienced (and nothing found during service appointments for maintenance) but wondering if anybody else's Ranger had this fault turn on when driving highway speeds and what was the outcome (or even suggested next steps besides trying to get an appointment). Based on reading other post from the Ranger 5G forum, it sounds like that Ford Dealers may not do anything if there is no light / fault code present so if it keeps disppearing, that doesn't make me feel much better either.

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[RangerBill]

First time post. I have seen quite a few related to the wrench and the diagnostic notification sent to the FordPass app stating "Powertrain Malfunction / Reduced Power" message but not really any that I could find on the site similar to what I am seeing.

It started on my drive to work this morning while I was driving on the highway at approximately 75 mph and the wrench (not flashing appeared). I went out at lunch and drove on city streets for approximately 5 miles total at 30 mph with no wrench / notification. Then as you guessed, on my way home from work which is an approximately 20 - 25 minute drive, the wrench notification appeared again while driving on the highway about 1/2 the way home. There was no noticeable impact when driving, temperature and RPM appeared to be normal, and no other visual issues from what I could tell. When I got home, my Ranger was turned off so I could grab my Innova 3020RS FixAssist OBD2 Code Reader and as you can guess again there was no wrench warning light and the OBD2 scanner did not identify anything. I wasn't sure if the OBD2 would pick up anything if the fault data wasn't being sent to/from the ECU but wanted to try anyway but I don't think it matters since everything I reset the vehicle it seems to disappear.

I purchased my Ranger used with approximately 19,000 on it in March 2023 and now I have 47,696 miles on it. At times (mostly initially after cold starting), the xmsn shifting does seem to be a little clunky but seems to go away as the xfer case and xmsn warm up and I have always contributed this to the inter-workings of these components (which is also why when I start I try to ease on the acceleration / pedal).

So starting to panic a bit here thinking it is xmsn related but also don't want to assume that based on what I have read on here since owning the Ranger (this is a great site and forum by the way). I really like the truck and no issues I have experienced (and nothing found during service appointments for maintenance) but wondering if anybody else's Ranger had this fault turn on when driving highway speeds and what was the outcome (or even suggested next steps besides trying to get an appointment). Based on reading other post from the Ranger 5G forum, it sounds like that Ford Dealers may not do anything if there is no light / fault code present so if it keeps disppearing, that doesn't make me feel much better either.

Possibly, your code reader can only read engine emmissions codes. I could be wrong. An advanced code reader should be able to read a stored code, as should the dealer's code reader. You could use Forscan to see if there is a stored code for the powertrain.

 

[TJC]

First time post. I have seen quite a few related to the wrench and the diagnostic notification sent to the FordPass app stating "Powertrain Malfunction / Reduced Power" message but not really any that I could find on the site similar to what I am seeing.
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At times (mostly initially after cold starting), the xmsn shifting does seem to be a little clunky but seems to go away as the xfer case and xmsn warm up and I have always contributed this to the inter-workings of these components (which is also why when I start I try to ease on the acceleration / pedal).

I can't speak to the fault that you are getting, but I can speak to the "clunky transmission".

Change your transmission fluid early and often. If you still have the problem after changing the fluid add a 16ox bottle of LubeGard Platinum.

I installed the "FitxStick" MBS transmission dipstick, and purchased a $25 pump from Amazon. sucked out 7.5 quarts, and installed 7 quart plus the LubeGard. All my severe transmission issues immediately disappeared. And they were MANY! I've got 1800 silky smooth miles on the truck since the fluid change. Best maintenance move I have made concerning my 2020 Ranger with 21800 miles on it. My troubles started at 5K, and got much worse by 15K. By 18K I had almost stopped driving it and was seriously considering selling it. I tried the LubeGard as a last ditch effort to correct the transmission issues. If it had failed the truck would be already gone.

It didn't and I am planning to take the truck on a 1500 mile trip in the next month. I have that much faith in it now. (However my wife is still doesn't trust it.)

 

[Red5ThGen]

I second the notion of plugging in the computer with forscan, your code reader might not be reading the ford specific codes. Also weird suggestion, but have you checked the rubber hose keeping your fan clutch from spinning and damaging your engine wiring harness, it tends to break and throw the wrench symbol, that usually puts the truck in limp mode too though.

 

[airline tech]

It appears it may be failing a - Drive Cycle test - and it is resetting the light on key cycle- best thing to do is plug in when the light is on without shutting the truck off - this way you should be able to pick up the code.

 

[mcypert09]

I can't speak to the fault that you are getting, but I can speak to the "clunky transmission".

Change your transmission fluid early and often. If you still have the problem after changing the fluid add a 16ox bottle of LubeGard Platinum.

I installed the "FitxStick" MBS transmission dipstick, and purchased a $25 pump from Amazon. sucked out 7.5 quarts, and installed 7 quart plus the LubeGard. All my severe transmission issues immediately disappeared. And they were MANY! I've got 1800 silky smooth miles on the truck since the fluid change. Best maintenance move I have made concerning my 2020 Ranger with 21800 miles on it. My troubles started at 5K, and got much worse by 15K. By 18K I had almost stopped driving it and was seriously considering selling it. I tried the LubeGard as a last ditch effort to correct the transmission issues. If it had failed the truck would be already gone.

It didn't and I am planning to take the truck on a 1500 mile trip in the next month. I have that much faith in it now. (However my wife is still doesn't trust it.)

Thank you Tony! Much appreciated and appreciate all the background! My plan was to actually change the xmsn fluid tonight and now my plan is to get some LubeGard Platinum as a back up plan. I have never used LubeGard Platinum or that type of product so appreciate you bringing that up.

Overall, your story is what I was kind of wondering if something is starting to happen. I would say the clunky / hard shifting is way less common than the xmsn operating correctly but who knows if it is a sign of something that will get worse.

But anyway, thank you again and good luck on the 1500 mile trip...have a great trip!

 

[mcypert09]

It appears it may be failing a - Drive Cycle test - and it is resetting the light on key cycle- best thing to do is plug in when the light is on without shutting the truck off - this way you should be able to pick up the code.

Hi there! Thanks for the input! That is the plan for today....already left the ODB scanner in my truck so I can do that as I drive it and assuming the nasty little wrench will end up turning on as I drive to work and get through the drive cycle.

 

[Stevedbvik1]

First time post. I have seen quite a few related to the wrench and the diagnostic notification sent to the FordPass app stating "Powertrain Malfunction / Reduced Power" message but not really any that I could find on the site similar to what I am seeing.

It started on my drive to work this morning while I was driving on the highway at approximately 75 mph and the wrench (not flashing appeared). I went out at lunch and drove on city streets for approximately 5 miles total at 30 mph with no wrench / notification. Then as you guessed, on my way home from work which is an approximately 20 - 25 minute drive, the wrench notification appeared again while driving on the highway about 1/2 the way home. There was no noticeable impact when driving, temperature and RPM appeared to be normal, and no other visual issues from what I could tell. When I got home, my Ranger was turned off so I could grab my Innova 3020RS FixAssist OBD2 Code Reader and as you can guess again there was no wrench warning light and the OBD2 scanner did not identify anything. I wasn't sure if the OBD2 would pick up anything if the fault data wasn't being sent to/from the ECU but wanted to try anyway but I don't think it matters since everything I reset the vehicle it seems to disappear.

I purchased my Ranger used with approximately 19,000 on it in March 2023 and now I have 47,696 miles on it. At times (mostly initially after cold starting), the xmsn shifting does seem to be a little clunky but seems to go away as the xfer case and xmsn warm up and I have always contributed this to the inter-workings of these components (which is also why when I start I try to ease on the acceleration / pedal).

So starting to panic a bit here thinking it is xmsn related but also don't want to assume that based on what I have read on here since owning the Ranger (this is a great site and forum by the way). I really like the truck and no issues I have experienced (and nothing found during service appointments for maintenance) but wondering if anybody else's Ranger had this fault turn on when driving highway speeds and what was the outcome (or even suggested next steps besides trying to get an appointment). Based on reading other post from the Ranger 5G forum, it sounds like that Ford Dealers may not do anything if there is no light / fault code present so if it keeps disppearing, that doesn't make me feel much better either.

What year is your Ranger?

 

[TJC]

Thank you Tony! Much appreciated and appreciate all the background! My plan was to actually change the xmsn fluid tonight and now my plan is to get some LubeGard Platinum as a back up plan. I have never used LubeGard Platinum or that type of product so appreciate you bringing that up.

Overall, your story is what I was kind of wondering if something is starting to happen. I would say the clunky / hard shifting is way less common than the xmsn operating correctly but who knows if it is a sign of something that will get worse.

But anyway, thank you again and good luck on the 1500 mile trip...have a great trip!

Thank you Tony! Much appreciated and appreciate all the background! My plan was to actually change the xmsn fluid tonight and now my plan is to get some LubeGard Platinum as a back up plan. I have never used LubeGard Platinum or that type of product so appreciate you bringing that up.

Overall, your story is what I was kind of wondering if something is starting to happen. I would say the clunky / hard shifting is way less common than the xmsn operating correctly but who knows if it is a sign of something that will get worse.

But anyway, thank you again and good luck on the 1500 mile trip...have a great trip!

I know that there are many who swear off additives, and I never use them as well. This was a first for me. And it took me a year of mulling before I decided to try the LubeGard Platinum. There are several others who discovered and used LubeGard Platinum with success well before I did. It still took me a year to finally give it a try. That is how strongly I resisted the idea of putting an additive into my transmission. I finally decided to give it a try. And I am glad I did.

I started with a 10 oz bottle and it cured 99% of the issues. 4th gear still had an occasional very very slightly harder shift than the other gears. I drove it for a month that way as was ecstatic. But I wanted that slight difference gone as well. After discussing with LubeGard support, who informed me I could go up to 24 oz, I added another 8oz to the mix. Over the next 100 miles the 4th gear shift fell in line with all the others, and now I do not notice the difference.

If you are interested, here's a little more detail from a previous post.

My not so detailed write up is here

 

[TJC]

One final thought.

LubeGard Platinum will cure sticking valve body solenoids. It will not correct the CDF drum slipping issue. Ford is actually replacing the old CDF drum with a redesigned part.

Both of these issues are well known problems with the 10R80 transmission.

 

[mcypert09]

I second the notion of plugging in the computer with forscan, your code reader might not be reading the ford specific codes. Also weird suggestion, but have you checked the rubber hose keeping your fan clutch from spinning and damaging your engine wiring harness, it tends to break and throw the wrench symbol, that usually puts the truck in limp mode too though.

Thank you! My initial plan is now having my current scanner in the car and use it when the indicator light turns on but before turning off the ignition (which seems to be resetting on the key cycle so when I do the scan as normal after the ignition was turned off there is no fault indicator light stuff on). Second plan is to get a better scan reader as the one I have is a DIY for sure and I think I got it from Autozone for around $50-$60 and I know it is not a professional one (still has decent reviews but know it is not one I would consider advanced/professional grade).

You second suggestion about the rubber hose on the fan clutch - I believe I did find that and looked at that after you suggesting that. If it is the small tube (maybe 1/2" OD tube that is approx 3 - 5" in length and somewhat shaped like a backwards "L"), I believe I have identified the tube but does not appear to be damaged but will look again when I get home.

Thank you for both of the suggestions!

 

[mcypert09]

What year is your Ranger?

COVID Truck....it is a 2020 Ford Ranger XLT

 

[mcypert09]

I know that there are many who swear off additives, and I never use them as well. This was a first for me. And it took me a year of mulling before I decided to try the LubeGard Platinum. There are several others who discovered and used LubeGard Platinum with success well before I did. It still took me a year to finally give it a try. That is how strongly I resisted the idea of putting an additive into my transmission. I finally decided to give it a try. And I am glad I did.

I started with a 10 oz bottle and it cured 99% of the issues. 4th gear still had an occasional very very slightly harder shift than the other gears. I drove it for a month that way as was ecstatic. But I wanted that slight difference gone as well. After discussing with LubeGard support, who informed me I could go up to 24 oz, I added another 8oz to the mix. Over the next 100 miles the 4th gear shift fell in line with all the others, and now I do not notice the difference.

If you are interested, here's a little more detail from a previous post.

My not so detailed write up is here

Cool, thanks Tony! I read many post related to the wrench indictor light popping up but didn't see this one specifically you posted. Now I am definitely changing my xmsn fluid tonight based on the picture of what you pulled out. I also found this video last night (Youtube link below) that I forgot to mention to you that also recommended the MBS xmsn dipstick. I think you already sold me on the Lubegard...

 

[Stevedbvik1]

COVID Truck....it is a 2020 Ford Ranger XLT

So your still under the 5 year 60K miles powertrain warranty. I would suggest that you take it in to have the transmission looked at ( TSB 24-2101 ) before doing anything to the transmission yourself. More than likely you are having the TSB related issue. If so then Ford will cover it.

 

[RangerBill]

Thank you! My initial plan is now having my current scanner in the car and use it when the indicator light turns on but before turning off the ignition (which seems to be resetting on the key cycle so when I do the scan as normal after the ignition was turned off there is no fault indicator light stuff on). Second plan is to get a better scan reader as the one I have is a DIY for sure and I think I got it from Autozone for around $50-$60 and I know it is not a professional one (still has decent reviews but know it is not one I would consider advanced/professional grade).

You second suggestion about the rubber hose on the fan clutch - I believe I did find that and looked at that after you suggesting that. If it is the small tube (maybe 1/2" OD tube that is approx 3 - 5" in length and somewhat shaped like a backwards "L"), I believe I have identified the tube but does not appear to be damaged but will look again when I get home.

Thank you for both of the suggestions!

I would download the Forscan program and get a USB adaptor for the OBD port. It will read stored DTC codes and allows you to view many parameters in the truck. The download is free and works with Windows laptops.

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