Ford Escape Quiz
Body and Paint

Diagnosis and Testing - Active Grille Shutter

In this manual: Body and Paint
General Information — 26Chassis — 160Powertrain — 323Electrical — 356Body and Paint — 290
~12min read

Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Chart

The diagnosis in this manual assumes a certain level of skill and knowledge of Ford-approved diagnostic procedures.
REFER TO: Diagnostic Methods (100-00 General Information, Description and Operation).


Module Trouble Code Description Action
PCM P059F:00 Active Grille Air Shutter "A" Efficiency / Stuck Off: No Sub Type Information GO to Pinpoint Test A
PCM P05A1:00 Active Grille Air Shutter Position Sensor "A" Minimum/Maximum Stop Efficiency: No Sub Type Information GO to Pinpoint Test A
PCM P05A2:00 Active Grille Air Shutter "A" Control Circuit/Open: No Sub Type Information GO to Pinpoint Test A
PCM P05A7:00 Active Grille Air Shutter "A" Power Circuit Low Voltage: No Sub Type Information GO to Pinpoint Test A
PCM P05C0:00 Active Grille Air Shutter Module "A" Overtemperature: No Sub Type Information GO to Pinpoint Test A
PCM U0046:00 Vehicle Communication Bus C: No Sub Type Information GO to Pinpoint Test A
PCM U0284:00 Communication Lost with Active Grille Air Shutter Module "A": No Sub Type Information GO to Pinpoint Test A

Global Customer Symptom Codes (GCSC) Table

The diagnosis in this manual assumes a certain level of skill and knowledge of Ford-approved diagnostic procedures.
REFER TO: Diagnostic Methods (100-00 General Information, Description and Operation).


Symptom Action
Fit/Finish/Body > Exterior Trim > Grille > Alignment GO to Pinpoint Test A
Fit/Finish/Body > Exterior Trim > Grille > Corrosion/Rust GO to Pinpoint Test A
Fit/Finish/Body > Exterior Trim > Grille > Loose/Attached GO to Pinpoint Test A
Fit/Finish/Body > Exterior Trim > Grille > Poor Fit GO to Pinpoint Test A

Symptom Chart

Symptom Chart: Active Grille Shutter

The diagnosis in this manual assumes a certain level of skill and knowledge of Ford-approved diagnostic procedures.
REFER TO: Diagnostic Methods (100-00 General Information, Description and Operation).


Symptom Chart


Condition Possible Sources Action
Active Grille Shutter Inoperative or Operating Incorrectly
  • Refer to Pinpoint Test
  • GO to Pinpoint Test A

Pinpoint Test(s)


PINPOINT TEST A: ACTIVE GRILLE SHUTTER INOPERATIVE OR OPERATING INCORRECTLY

For wiring diagrams and connector information, refer to Wiring Diagram Cell 33.

Normal Operation and Fault Symptoms

Refer to: Active Grille Shutter - Overview (501-02 Front End Body Panels, Description and Operation).

DTC Fault Trigger Conditions

Trouble Code Description Fault Trigger Condition
PCM P059F:00 Active Grille Air Shutter "A" Efficiency / Stuck Off: No Sub Type Information When the grille shutter actuator detects that it cannot move the grille shutter, it sends a message to the PCM through LIN. The PCM sets this DTC when the fault is reported for a predetermined amount of time.
PCM P05A1:00 Active Grille Air Shutter Position Sensor "A" Minimum/Maximum Stop Efficiency: No Sub Type Information When the grille shutter actuator detects that it cannot reach the fully open or fully closed grille shutter position, it sends a message to the PCM through LIN. The PCM then sets the DTC when the fault is reported for a predetermined amount of time.
PCM P05A2:00 Active Grille Air Shutter "A" Control Circuit/Open: No Sub Type Information This DTC is set when the grille shutter actuator H-Bridge control circuit is overtemperature, or a short to ground or open circuit is detected in the actuator control circuit. The PCM sets this DTC when the condition is present for a predetermined amount of time.
PCM P05A7:00 Active Grille Air Shutter "A" Power Circuit Low Voltage: No Sub Type Information When the grille shutter actuator detects low voltage, it sends a message to the PCM through LIN. The PCM sets this DTC when the fault is reported for a predetermined amount of time.
PCM P05C0:00 Active Grille Air Shutter Module "A" Overtemperature: No Sub Type Information This DTC is set when the upper active grille shutter actuator detects excessive internal heat.
PCM U0046:00 Vehicle Communication Bus C: No Sub Type Information This DTC is set when the PCM detects a short to voltage supply, a short to ground, or an open in the LIN.
PCM U0284:00 Communication Lost with Active Grille Air Shutter Module "A": No Sub Type Information When the PCM does not receive a message from the grille shutter actuator within a specified time, the PCM sets this DTC.

Possible Sources

  • Fuse
  • Wiring, Terminals or Connectors
  • Grille Shutter Actuator
  • Grille Shutter Louvers
  • PCM

Visual Inspection and Pre-checks

  • Check for physical damage.
  • Check the battery voltage.
  • Make sure the BJB fuse 8 (15A) is in good condition.
  • Make sure there is no debris or other obstructions in the grille opening that prevent the grille shutter from operating.
A1 CHECK THE ACTIVE GRILLE SHUTTER MODULE LOST COMMUNICATION (GRILL_LOSTCOMM) PARAMETER IDENTIFICATION (PID)
  • Using a diagnostic scan tool, view the PCM PIDs.
  • Using the diagnostic scan tool,

    Access the PCM and monitor the GRILL_LOSTCOMM PID

    .

Does the PID indicate a lost communication fault?
Yes Yes - GO to A9
No No - GO to A2
A2 CHECK THE ACTIVE GRILLE SHUTTER ACTUATOR ELECTRICAL FAULT (GRILL_A_ELEC_F) PARAMETER IDENTIFICATION (PID)
  • Using a diagnostic scan tool, view the PCM PIDs.
  • Using the diagnostic scan tool,

    Access the PCM and monitor the GRILL_A_ELEC_F PID

    .

Does the PID indicate an electrical fault in the actuator?
Yes GO to A9
No GO to A3
A3 CHECK THE ACTIVE GRILLE SHUTTER ACTUATOR LOW VOLTAGE IN SYSTEM (GRILL_A_UNDRV) PARAMETER IDENTIFICATION (PID)
  • Using a diagnostic scan tool, view the PCM PIDs.
  • Using a diagnostic scan tool,

    Access the PCM and monitor the GRILL_A_UNDRV PID

    .

Does the active grille shutter system detect a fault?
Yes GO to A9
No GO to A4
A4 CHECK THE ACTIVE GRILLE SHUTTER ACTUATOR OVERTEMPERATURE (GRILL_A_OVRT) PARAMETER IDENTIFICATION (PID)
  • Using a diagnostic scan tool, view the PCM PIDs.
  • Using the diagnostic scan tool,

    Access the PCM and monitor the GRILL_A_OVRT PID

    .

Does the PID indicate actuator overtemperature?
Yes GO to A9
No GO to A5
A5 CHECK THE GRILLE SHUTTER OPERATION USING THE GRILLE SHUTTER A POSITION (GRILL_CMDCAL) PARAMETER IDENTIFICATION (PID)
  • Turn the IGNITION ON.
  • ALLOW time to complete the grille shutter calibration.
  • Using a diagnostic scan tool, view the PCM PIDs.
  • Read the PCM PIDs and attempt to complete the AGS self-learn using the GRILL_CMDCAL calibration PID.
  • Using a diagnostic scan tool,

    Access the PCM and monitor the GRILL_CMDCAL PID

    .

Is the AGS attempting to complete self-learn?
Yes GO to A6
No GO to A9
A6 CHECK ACTIVE GRILLE SHUTTER A POSITION FAULT (GRILL_A_POS_F) PARAMETER IDENTIFICATION (PID)
  • Using a diagnostic scan tool, view the PCM PIDs.
  • Using the diagnostic scan tool,

    Access the PCM and monitor the GRILL_A_POS_F PID.

    .

Does the PID status indicate that the end stop is not found?
Yes GO to A9
No GO to A7
A7 CHECK ACTIVE GRILLE SHUTTER DEVICE CLOSED/BLOCKED (GRILL_A_BLCK) PARAMETER IDENTIFICATION (PID)
  • Using a diagnostic scan tool, view the PCM PIDs.
  • Using the diagnostic scan tool,

    Access the PCM and monitor the GRILL_A_BLCK PID.

    .

Does the PID indicate that the active grille shutter actuator is binding?
Yes GO to A9
No GO to A8
A8 CHECK GRILLE SHUTTER OPERATION USING GRILLE SHUTTER POSITION A - COMMANDED (GRILL_A_CMD) PARAMETER IDENTIFICATION (PID)
  • Perform a visual inspection of the active grille shutter system.
  • Turn the IGNITION on to complete the grille shutter calibration.
  • Using the scan tool, view the PCM PID for the output state.

    Access the PCM and monitor the GRILL_A_CMD (% Open) PID.

    while observing the grille shutter operation at the front of the vehicle.
  • Monitor the PID error status while operating the active grille shutter system.

Does the active grille shutter PID status indicate any faults when the output state control operation is completed?
Yes For GRILL_LOSTCOMM - Loss of communication with active grille shutter control module "A", GO to A9.
For GRILL_A_ELEC_F - Grille shutter module "A" - indicates an electrical fault, GO to A9.
For GRILL_A_UNDRV - Grille shutter module "A" - indicates an undervoltage condition, GO to A9.
For GRILL_A_OVRT - Grille shutter module "A" - indicates overtemperature, GO to A9.
For GRILL_CMDCAL - Grille shutter module "A" - Self-calibration, GO to A9.
For GRILL_A_POS_F - Grille shutter actuator "A" fault - end stop not found or found in an unexpected location, GO to A9.
For GRILL_A_BLCK - Grille shutter "A" blocked - unable to reach commanded position, GO to A9.
No The system is currently operating correctly. The concern may have been caused by module connections. ADDRESS the root cause of any connector or terminal issues.
A9 CHECK THE POWER SUPPLY TO THE GRILLE SHUTTER ACTUATOR
  • Ignition OFF.
  • Disconnect: Active grille shutter C1651.
  • The ignition is on.
  • Action:
    Positive lead Measurement/Action Negative lead
    C1651-3 Ground

Is the voltage greater than 11 volts?
Yes GO to A10
No CHECK the BJB fuse 8 (15A) for good condition. If good, REPAIR the circuit. If not good, REFER to the Wiring Diagrams Cell to identify the cause of the short circuit.
A10 CHECK THE GRILLE SHUTTER ACTUATOR GROUND CIRCUIT FOR AN OPEN
  • Ignition OFF.
  • Action:
    Click to display the connectors
    Positive lead Measurement/Action Negative lead
    C1651-1 Ground

Is the resistance less than 3 ohms?
Yes For DTC U0046:00 or U0284:00, GO to A11.
For DTC P05A7:00, GO to A19.
No REPAIR the circuit.
A11 CHECK THE LIN (LOCAL INTERCONNECT NETWORK) CIRCUIT FOR AN OPEN
  • Disconnect: Active grille shutter C1651.
  • Disconnect: PCM C175B (1.5 L), C1551B (2 L) or C1381B (2.5 L HEV).
  • For vehicles with the 1.5 L engine, measure:
    Positive lead Measurement/Action Negative lead
    C1651-2 C175B-47
  • For vehicles with the 2 L engine, measure:
    Positive lead Measurement/Action Negative lead
    C1651-2 C1551B-47
  • For vehicles equipped with the 2.5 L hybrid engine, measure:
    Positive lead Measurement/Action Negative lead
    C1651-2 C1381B-74

Is the resistance less than 3 ohms?
Yes GO to A12
No REPAIR the circuit.
A12 CHECK THE LIN (LOCAL INTERCONNECT NETWORK) CIRCUIT FOR A SHORT TO VOLTAGE
  • The ignition is on.
  • Action:
    Click to display the connectors
    Positive lead Measurement/Action Negative lead
    C1651-2 Ground

Is there voltage present?
Yes For vehicles with the 1.5 L or 2 L engine, GO to A13.
For vehicles equipped with the 2.5 L hybrid engine, GO to A14.
No GO to A15
A13 CHECK THE LIN (LOCAL INTERCONNECT NETWORK) CIRCUIT FOR A SHORT TO VOLTAGE WITH THE GENERATOR DISCONNECTED
  • Ignition OFF.
  • For vehicles with the 1.5 L engine displacement, disconnect the generator C1104B.
  • For vehicles with the 2 L, disconnect the generator C1558B.
  • The ignition is on.
  • Action:
    Click to display the connectors
    Positive lead Measurement/Action Negative lead
    C1651-2 Ground

Is there voltage present?
Yes REPAIR the circuit.
No INSTALL a new generator.
REFER TO: Generator - 1.5 L EcoBoost (132 kW/180 L hp) – I3 (Y1), vehicles built on: October 2, 2020 (414-02 Generator and Regulator, Removal and Installation).
REFER TO: Generator - 2 L EcoBoost (177 kW/240 L hp) – MI4 (414-02 Generator and Regulator, Removal and Installation).
A14 CHECK THE LIN (LOCAL INTERCONNECT NETWORK) CIRCUIT FOR A SHORT TO VOLTAGE WITH THE ELECTRIC WATER PUMP DISCONNECTED
  • Ignition OFF.
  • For vehicles with the 2.5 L hybrid electric vehicle, disconnect the electric water pump C1052.
  • The ignition is on.
  • Action:
    Click to display the connectors
    Positive lead Measurement/Action Negative lead
    C1651-2 Ground

Is there voltage present?
Yes REPAIR the circuit.
No INSTALL a new coolant pump.
REFER TO: Coolant Pump (303-03C Engine Cooling, Removal and Installation).
A15 CHECK THE LIN (LOCAL INTERCONNECT NETWORK) CIRCUIT FOR A SHORT TO GROUND
  • Ignition OFF.
  • Action:
    Click to display the connectors
    Positive lead Measurement/Action Negative lead
    C1651-2 Ground

Is the resistance greater than 10000 Ohms?
Yes GO to A18
No For vehicles with the 1.5 L or 2 L engine, GO to A16.
For vehicles equipped with the 2.5 L hybrid engine, GO to A17.
A16 CHECK THE LIN (LOCAL INTERCONNECT NETWORK) CIRCUIT FOR A SHORT TO GROUND WITH THE GENERATOR DISCONNECTED
  • For vehicles with the 1.5 L engine displacement, disconnect the generator C1104B.
  • For vehicles with the 2 L, disconnect the generator C1558B.
  • Action:
    Click to display the connectors
    Positive lead Measurement/Action Negative lead
    C1651-2 Ground

Is the resistance greater than 10000 Ohms?
Yes INSTALL a new generator.
REFER TO: Generator - 1.5 L EcoBoost (132 kW/180 L hp) – I3 (Y1), vehicles built on: October 2, 2020 (414-02 Generator and Regulator, Removal and Installation).
REFER TO: Generator - 2 L EcoBoost (177 kW/240 L hp) – MI4 (414-02 Generator and Regulator, Removal and Installation).
No REPAIR the circuit.
A17 CHECK THE LIN (LOCAL INTERCONNECT NETWORK) CIRCUIT FOR A SHORT TO GROUND WITH THE ELECTRIC WATER PUMP DISCONNECTED
  • For vehicles with the 2.5 L hybrid electric vehicle, disconnect the electric water pump C1052.
  • Action:
    Click to display the connectors
    Positive lead Measurement/Action Negative lead
    C1651-2 Ground

Is the resistance greater than 10000 Ohms?
Yes INSTALL a new coolant pump.
REFER TO: Coolant Pump (303-03C Engine Cooling, Removal and Installation).
No REPAIR the circuit.
A18 CHECK THE GRILLE SHUTTER FOR OBSTRUCTIONS AND/OR MECHANICAL BINDING
  • Ignition OFF.
  • Remove the grille shutter actuator.
    REFER TO: Active Grille Shutter Actuator (501-02 Front End Body Panels, Removal and Installation).
  • Manually open and close the grille shutter, removing any obstructions that may interfere with grille shutter operation or linkage. The grille shutter must open and close easily without binding.

Does the grille shutter operate freely, without binding or obstruction?
Yes GO to A19.
No REPAIR the binding/obstruction or, if necessary, INSTALL a new active grille shutter.
REFER TO: Active Grille Shutter (501-02 Front End Body Panels, Removal and Installation).
A19 CHECK THE GRILLE SHUTTER ACTUATOR AND POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (PCM) INTEGRITY
  • Ignition OFF.
  • Disconnect: Active grille shutter C1651 (if not previously disconnected).
  • Disconnect: PCM C175B (1.5 L), C1551B (2 L) or C1381B (2.5 L HEV).
  • Inspect the grille shutter actuator, PCM electrical connectors and jumper harness.
  • Repair:
    • corrosion (install new connector or terminals - clean module pins)
    • damaged or bent pins - if necessary, install new terminals/pins
    • pushed-out pins - install new pins as necessary
  • Connect the grille shutter actuator connector, jumper harness and all previously disconnected system connectors. Make sure they are seated and latched correctly.
  • Operate the system and determine if the concern is still present.

Is the concern still present?
Yes CHECK OASIS for applicable TSBs. If a TSB exists for this condition, STOP this test and FOLLOW the TSB instructions. If no TSB applies, INSTALL a new component.
REFER TO: Active Grille Shutter Actuator (501-02 Front End Body Panels, Removal and Installation).
CLEAR the DTCs. REPEAT the self-test. If the condition persists, contact the Ford Technical Assistance Hotline.
No The system is currently operating correctly. The concern may have been caused by module connections. ADDRESS the root cause of any connector or terminal issues.

Test yourself

A quick Ford Escape quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.