Having the check engine or service engine soon light come on in your Ford vehicle can be annoying and troubling. But don’t panic – these lights can have minor causes and often the issue can be fixed yourself. This guide will cover the common reasons for a Ford check engine light, how to diagnose the problem, and instructions for how to reset the check engine light in Ford models like the Ford Edge, Escape, Focus, Fusion, Explorer, and F-150.
What Does the Ford Check Engine Light Mean?
The check engine light, also known as the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) or service engine soon light, indicates issues with your vehicle’s emissions system. While a loose gas cap is a common cause, it could also indicate problems with the oxygen sensors, mass airflow sensor, catalytic converter, and more.
A flashing or blinking check engine light means there is a serious engine misfire issue that needs immediate attention. If the check engine light is flashing, it is important to get your Ford serviced right away.
Common Causes of the Ford Check Engine Light
Here are some of the most common triggers for the check engine light in Ford vehicles:
1. Loose or faulty gas cap: A loose or faulty gas cap can cause the check engine light to come on. Make sure to tighten the gas cap properly or replace it if necessary.
2. Faulty oxygen sensor: The oxygen sensor measures oxygen levels in the exhaust system. A faulty oxygen sensor can cause the check engine light to illuminate.
3. Bad mass airflow sensor: The mass airflow sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine. A malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can trigger the check engine light.
4. Failed ignition coils: Ignition coils are responsible for providing the spark to ignite the fuel in the combustion chamber. If an ignition coil fails, it can trigger the check engine light.
5. Problem with the EGR valve: The EGR valve recirculates exhaust gases back into the engine for combustion. If the EGR valve becomes clogged or malfunctions, it can cause the check engine light to come on.
6. Defective catalytic converter: The catalytic converter helps reduce emissions. If the catalytic converter fails or becomes clogged, it can trigger the check engine light.
7. Clogged fuel injectors: Fuel injectors deliver fuel to the engine. If the fuel injectors become clogged or dirty, it can cause the check engine light to illuminate.
Other issues such as problems with the evaporative emissions system, spark plugs, and worn brakes can also set off the Ford check engine light.
How to Diagnose and Reset Ford Check Engine Light
Before resetting the check engine light, it’s important to diagnose and fix the underlying issue first. You can retrieve the diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) to point you towards the source. Here are the steps:
1. Read Ford Check Engine Light Codes:
– Locate the OBDII port under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
– Connect an OBDII scanner to read the codes. You can purchase an inexpensive OBDII code reader online or at auto parts stores.
– Write down the codes and look them up online or in the vehicle manual to identify the problem area.
For Ford models like the Escape, Focus, Fusion, Explorer, and F-150, the common codes you may retrieve include P0171, P0174, P0420, P0430, and P0128.
2. Reset Ford Check Engine Light:
– Once the underlying problem is fixed, you can clear the check engine light codes and turn off the light. Here are a few methods:
– Use an OBDII scanner: Follow the scanner menu prompts to reset the light codes. This is the simplest way.
– Disconnect the battery: Disconnect the negative battery cable for 30 seconds to reset the Ford computer and turn off the light.
Keep in mind that just resetting the check engine light without addressing the problem will cause the light to come back on. The light is designed to alert you to issues needing repair to keep emissions within legal limits.
Get Ford Check Engine Light Fixed
Some check engine light issues can be simple fixes, but others require professional diagnosis and repair at a Ford service center. Especially if the light is flashing, have your Ford serviced immediately to prevent further damage.
Resetting the check engine light yourself can save money in minor cases, but a professional Ford technician has the expertise to get any emissions system problems fixed right the first time. Don’t ignore the check engine light – schedule service today at Westlie Ford to keep your Ford in top condition.
More information about Ford, Please visit Ford Trouble Repair
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