1. Emissions Control System Issues:
- Faulty oxygen sensors.
- Issues with the catalytic converter.
- Problems with the evaporative emissions control system, such as leaks or a faulty purge valve.
2. Engine Problems:
- Misfires due to worn spark plugs, damaged spark plug wires, or faulty ignition coils.
- Malfunctioning fuel injectors or issues with the fuel system.
- Leaks or other issues with the vacuum system.
- Faulty air flow sensor (MAF) or mass air flow sensor (MAF).
3. Miscellaneous Causes:
- Loose or disconnected gas cap.
- Faulty sensors or switches, such as the coolant temperature sensor, the throttle position sensor, or the oxygen sensor.
- Low fluid levels, especially oil or coolant.
- Transmission issues in certain Ford models.
When the check engine light turns on, it's recommended to scan the vehicle's on-board diagnostics (OBD) system using a code reader to determine the specific trouble code(s) associated with the issue. The trouble code(s) can then be researched to narrow down the possible causes and perform further diagnostics or repairs as needed.
