998 Hard fault present
How to read it
Code 998 reads as 9 flashes, pause, 9 flashes, pause, 8 flashes on the check-engine light. Jumper the self-test input to signal return at the test connector, then run the key on engine off self test and the running self test, counting the check-engine flashes each time.
New to flash codes? The OBD-I code reading guide walks through the paperclip method, code 12, and reading two-digit codes.
What does Ford code 998 mean?
998. Hard fault present. This code sets when your vehicle computer detects hard fault present.
Common causes of 998
- A fault is present right now during the test
- A component failed with the fault stored as a hard code
- Open or shorted circuit causing a continuous fault
- Failed sensor or actuator holding the fault
- Fault stored after a component failure
How to fix 998
- Confirm the code and read all codes that follow it in the sequence
- Diagnose the companion fault codes first since this is a status code
- Inspect the circuits named by the other codes for opens and shorts
- Repair the fault and clear the codes
- Retest to confirm no hard fault remains