Was interesting that the temperature gauge read normal (in the middle of the gauge as always) and didn't indicate any issues whatsoever. Car ran normally after checking the code at auto zone.
Not surprising. The dashboard indicator is designed to look like a 'gauge' but it's really only a readout indicator from the
PCM. Like a glorified idiot light? As you go from cold to operating temperature, the
PCM gradually moves the 'gauge' from cold to the midpoint, but then continues to keep the 'gauge' at midpoint while the actual
coolant temperature varies, as long as the true temperature from the coolant sensor stays somewhere within an acceptable bracket. If memory serves, that's about a 30+ degree swing. It's only once the temps have already risen above an acceptable normal that the
PCM will start to move the 'gauge' above the midpoint. Which accounts for the sorry fact that the 'gauge' doesn't give you much warning.
Sounds like you've had a hairline crack that's been allowing air into the cooling system and finally compromised it enough to trigger your experience. Verrry common with the cooling system in these cars ... odds are that you're due for a complete replacement of the 'plastic' cooling system
parts, including lower hose, upper hose, and the various
parts at the top-front of the engine block, one of which is a bear to replace. Unfortunately, and except for the degas bottle, Ford seems to have discontinued the
OEM parts.
When driving, emission light came on. Took to auto zone and had codes read. Indicated cylinder 7 misfire. Drove normally, no issues. When I got home, reserve coolant tank boiled over. Oil looks ok. Any thoughts or information on this issue? Car starts normally, but afraid to drive without resolving the issue. Thanks Reader code is P0307
Your code + 'emission light' experience sounds a little more complicated than the 'usual' aging-
coils (
COP) issue. Usually the
coils just get progressively weaker and start to stumble under load. But since you've received a code for cylinder 7, it might be worthwhile to pull the inspection cover and see if there's any oil in the
spark plug well. It's not uncommon with this engine design for the o-rings to leak at the plug wells, leading to oil around the plug and
COP, which will kill the
coil is short order.