Ford Check Engine Light - Causes, Cost, Risks and Safety

Why has the Check Engine Light Come On in my Ford Edge, Explorer, Escape or F-150?

Is it the light of doom or the light of destiny? Regardless of your outlook, your car's check engine light is there to ensure you're made aware of any potential hazards that may negatively impact your car's performance and your enjoyment behind the wheel. Like any adventure-loving motorist, you want to ensure your vehicle is in good health before setting out on the road. Understanding the warning lights on your dashboard will help you attain this goal.

There are plenty of reasons why your check engine light may come on. Sometimes, your check engine light does not portend a major issue. For example, the light can come on if you leave your fuel cap loose after filling up. Of course, there are occasions when the warning means something bigger is afoot.

Your car's electronic control module or ECM is the central hub of your vehicle. This computer initiates this warning sign when it finds a problem with your vehicle. Sometimes, the code it produces can be difficult to decipher. That's okay because you have our highly trained and certified Ford technicians in your corner. We'll give your vehicle a detailed once-over to ensure we know how to best service your ride.

Frequently Asked Questions

Since there are many things that could be the culprit for why your check engine light is coming on it is impossible to say what the cost could be. For example, it could be a simple sensor that needs to replaced which could cost as little as $100. Of course, in rare cases it could be an issue with your transmission which could cost hundreds of dollars to repair. Make an appointment to bring your car into our Macon area Ford dealership to get it checked.

The check engine light means your ECM has encountered an issue with your vehicle. It may be mundane. It may be major. Regardless of the degree of severity, you can count on the experts at Butler Ford to deliver experienced and personalized care tailored to your vehicle's needs.

As we mentioned earlier, there can be a variety of reasons why your check engine light comes on. The possibilities are nearly endless, which is why it's important to have one of our experts inspect your vehicle if the light turns on and doesn't turn off.

Take a look at some of the possible reasons your check engine light is glowing.

  • Bad or damaged spark plugs
  • Defective or bad battery
  • O2 sensor
  • Emissions controls problems
  • Transmission problems
  • Faulty head gasket
  • Ignition system faults
  • Feul injection sensor problem
  • Computer circuit problems
  • Engine failure
  • Fuel and air metering system problems

Your dashboard warning lights are there for a reason. They are designed to keep you informed and safe. Obviously, when the issue is small and can be resolved easily, like tightening your gas cap, then driving after correcting the issue is fine. But when the check engine light remains, continuously driving with the light on should be avoided.

Your car takes great care of you. Don't let it down now. When your check engine light is lit, it's important that you take this warning seriously. Planning a road trip when you're unsure as to your automobile's overall health is not a wise decision. If your check engine light is on, it's prudent to check with one of our experts before. When ignored, even small hiccups can become costly issues. Let us help you avoid future headaches. Visit our Service Center.

A flashing check engine light is quite serious and should not be ignored. If this is not addressed soon, it could lead to costly repairs and could even be dangerous to drive. The blinking light in your Ford Explorer. Ford truck or other Ford vehicle, means severe engine problems and if you continue driving your it, this can spread to the spark plug wires, catalytic converter, or ignition coils which can lead to an even more expensive car repair.

Contact Our Service Center to Talk to a Specialist

Contact us online or call our Service Center to schedule your appointment. One of our experienced specialists will be happy to help resolve your vehicle's issue, providing you with insight as to why your check engine light is on and what we can do about it.

We use the latest technology to diagnose and repair your ride. You're in great hands when choosing Butler Ford. 

We'll see you soon.