Check Engine Light

[steveb]

1997 Explorer Sport - 4wd, 54k miles!

I passed Utah's I/M test last Monday with no problems at all, the readings were all normal - and then, 2 days later, the "CHECK ENGINE" light comes on. According to the manual, this indicates some kind of emissions problem!!

And just tonight, I noticed some fluid under the engine on the driveway - but there was snow and ice there too, and I couldn't really tell what it was...

I can't get the car in until after Thanksgiving, any ideas on what to check for in the interim???

Many thanks,

Steve

 

[Robert]

Originally posted by steveb
1997 Explorer Sport - 4wd, 54k miles!

I passed Utah's I/M test last Monday with no problems at all, the readings were all normal - and then, 2 days later, the "CHECK ENGINE" light comes on. According to the manual, this indicates some kind of emissions problem!!

And just tonight, I noticed some fluid under the engine on the driveway - but there was snow and ice there too, and I couldn't really tell what it was...

I can't get the car in until after Thanksgiving, any ideas on what to check for in the interim???

Many thanks,

Steve

Check that your gas cap is on tight. If they checked for lead in your tank they may have left your gas cap loose. If your dealer is anything like Berge Ford here in Mesa, AZ, they will charge you $75 when they read the codes to tell you that. I would suggest removing and re-installing the gas cap and then remove the negative battery cable for several minutes. The light should go out. If it doesn't come back on don't worry about it. If it does, then there is something else wrong. Other than that and without a code-reader you will only be guessing.