Check Engine Light!!!

[djmadrock]

I have a '99 Explorer sport with 125000 miles on it. I was driving home a few weeks ago and the check engine light came on while I was driving. I continued to drive my car home. I haven't driven it sense until today..... I forgot why I love my Explorer now!!! I have a old clunker to get me around for now! I was going to take it to a shop to have them run some test on it. Has anyone had this problem or problems like this before. I hate taking it to the Ford House cause they will rape me on it. However, I wil take it in if nobody can help me with this. I had recently change the plugs and wires. Everything was fine until now. I had planned on changing the trans fluid and flushing the radiator fluid aswell. I know I probably need to have it completely check out. PLEASE HELP!!! I WANT MY CAR BACK!!!

 

[snocross1985]

Drive it over to AutoZone and ask them to scan the check engine light code. They do this for free, I just had it done on my dad's pickup. Once they scan the code they tell you what the problem is. Once you know what the problem is you can search around here as to how to fix it or take it to a local mechanic and tell them what is wrong and have them fix it.

 

[Scrap Iron]

I've recently had the same problem with my 98 Sport. I had a buddy hook it up to get the diagnostic trouble code. The code was P1740, which is the tranny. Specifically the Torque Converter Clutch Solenoid. After some investigation, I found that this is very common with Explorers. This is usually accompanied by the O/D light blinking. I'm still trying to find out the procedure for changing the solenoid. I've heard it's not too difficult, but I'm not a mechanic. Hope this helps you out.

 

[dogfriend]

djmadrock - There are literaly dozens of different reasons why your CEL may come on. Some of them are very easy to fix, some of them not so easy. You need to get someone to read the codes, then post them here and someone will explain what the code means.

Scrap Iron - You can service the solenoid(s) with the tranny still in the truck. I posted the procedure in this thread:
Solenoid Service

 

[Mbrooks420]

Also haveing a CEl on is not a valid reason to post in this forum. Don't take the truck to Ford for anything that isn't a warrantied repair. Any shop can scan the codes.

 

[93XLTrusty]

I have had some check engine light problems in the past, but lately they have been coming back to haunt me. It seems that the light comes on when i am on a long trip (over an hour of continuous driving) and the check engine light only comes on when i am going down a long hill. This can obviously be related to the throttle since my foot is off the gas when coasting downhill. The light turns off as soon as I apply medium pressure to the gas pedal. This whole situation was happening a few years ago, and I took it in to get looked at. They told me the problem was the oxygen sensors. I had never had them replaced, so i let them do it. This fixed the problem...until now. Keep in mind i had the oxygen sensors replaced less than 3 years ago...so i doubt that is the problem. Is it possible the fuel pump or filter could cause these symptoms?

 

[Fordagain]

Is it possible to pull the CEL codes manually? e.i. turning the key back or using an analogue voltmeter, or do I have to go to a garage to get the codes?

Thanks in advance...

 

[Robb]

Yes, the '91-'95s can be read with a voltmeter and a Haynes manual. They can also be read via an OBD1 reader available at Wal-Mart or many parts stores.

CELs must be read to figure out the problem. It is nearly impossible to know what code is being thrown just because of the conditions that existed when the CEL came on.

 

[Fordagain]

thanks for the speedy reply! I am going to do this right now...

 

[93XLTrusty]

Ok, I am going to get my CEL tested at Autozone, but does the light have to be on while they test it in order to find the problem?

 

[Billy177]

it is probrally your lower intake manifold gaskets leaking which in turn will give you a both banks lean code