The most common reason for a check engine light in a 2017 Ford Explorer is a failing oxygen sensor. This can be quickly replaced by a local auto repair shop in Western Washington to restore the vehicle’s ability to measure unburned oxygen in its exhaust system.
Depending on the severity, a solid yellow or orange light may indicate a less serious issue, while a flashing light requires immediate attention. Introducing the topic of a check engine light in a 2017 Ford Explorer, one of the most common reasons for this warning light is a failing oxygen sensor.
When this sensor malfunctions, it can trigger the check engine light to illuminate, indicating that there is a problem with the vehicle’s emissions system. This issue can be resolved by promptly replacing the oxygen sensor at a local auto repair shop. However, it’s important to note that the severity of the problem can vary, with a solid yellow or orange light indicating a lower severity issue, while a flashing light indicates a critical problem that requires immediate attention. Understanding the cause and severity of a check engine light in a Ford Explorer is essential for maintaining the vehicle’s performance and prolonging its lifespan.
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What Is A Check Engine Light?
A check engine light is a warning indicator on the dashboard of your vehicle that is designed to alert you of any potential issues or malfunctions within your car’s engine or emissions system. When this light comes on, it is important to take it seriously and have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Ignoring the check engine light can lead to more severe and costly problems down the road.
Common Reasons For Activation
There are several common reasons why your check engine light may be activated. These include:
- Malfunctioning oxygen sensor
- Loose or missing gas cap
- Faulty catalytic converter
- Issues with the mass airflow sensor
- Damaged or worn-out spark plugs
- Faulty ignition coils
It is important to note that these are just a few examples of common reasons for check engine light activation. Every vehicle is different, and the specific cause for the activation of the check engine light may vary.
Severity Of Solid And Flashing Lights
When the check engine light comes on, it can either be solid or flashing. The severity of the light depends on its state:
- Solid Check Engine Light: A solid yellow or orange light indicates a lower severity issue. While it may not require immediate attention, it is still recommended to schedule an appointment with an auto mechanic to diagnose and fix the problem. Ignoring a solid check engine light can lead to further damage to your vehicle.
- Flashing Check Engine Light: A flashing check engine light indicates a critical problem that requires immediate attention. Continuing to drive the vehicle with a flashing check engine light can result in severe damage to the engine or emissions system. It is advised to pull over safely and have your vehicle towed to a mechanic for a thorough inspection.
It is crucial to address the cause of the check engine light as soon as possible to prevent any further complications and ensure the longevity of your vehicle.
Troubleshooting The Check Engine Light
When your check engine light comes on in your 2017 Ford Explorer, it can be a cause for concern. However, understanding the most probable causes and potential damage can help you troubleshoot the issue and determine the urgency of getting it fixed.
Most Probable Causes
The check engine light in your Ford Explorer can be triggered by various factors. Here are some of the most common probable causes:
- Malfunctioning oxygen sensor
- Exhaust system leak
- Catalytic converter problem
- Mass airflow sensor failure
Note: It’s important to have a professional diagnostic test conducted to accurately determine the cause of the check engine light.
Potential Damage And Urgency
The urgency of addressing the check engine light in your 2017 Ford Explorer depends on the type of light you see. A solid yellow or orange light indicates a lower severity, but it still requires attention and diagnosis. On the other hand, a flashing check engine light is a sign of a critical problem that requires immediate attention.
Note: Ignoring a flashing light can result in exceptional damage to your vehicle.
Having your check engine light diagnosed and repaired by a professional will not only address the current issue but also potentially prevent further damage to your engine and other components. Remember, a well-maintained vehicle is a safe and reliable one.
Reset And Diagnosis
When the check engine light in your 2017 Ford Explorer comes on, it can be a cause of concern. Understanding how to reset the check engine light and the associated costs for diagnosis can help in addressing the issue promptly. Here’s how you can reset the check engine light and get an idea of the cost and service for diagnosis.
How To Reset The Check Engine Light
If you want to reset the check engine light in your 2017 Ford Explorer, you can follow these steps:
- Turn off the ignition and wait for a few minutes.
- Open the hood and locate the car battery.
- Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery for about 15-20 minutes.
- Reconnect the terminal and start the car to see if the check engine light has been reset.
Cost And Service For Diagnosis
When it comes to diagnosing the issue causing the check engine light, the cost and service can vary. It’s advisable to take the car to a certified mechanic or a Ford dealership to get an accurate diagnosis. The cost for diagnosis can include:
- Diagnostic scan tool usage
- Labor costs for the time spent on diagnosis
- Potential replacement of faulty components
Always inquire about the specific costs and services included before proceeding with the diagnosis to ensure transparency and avoid any surprises.
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Specific To Ford Explorer
When it comes to the Ford Explorer, dealing with the check engine light can be a common occurrence. Understanding the specific issues related to the Ford Explorer can help you address this warning sign promptly.
Common Causes And Codes
One of the common causes of the check engine light in a Ford Explorer is a faulty oxygen sensor. This component measures unburned oxygen in the exhaust system, and a failing sensor can trigger the light to come on.
Another frequent culprit for the check engine light in Ford Explorer is issues within the emissions/exhaust system. This may include an exhaust leak, problems with the catalytic converter, or a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor (MAF).
Check Engine Light Reset For Ford Explorer
If the check engine light in your Ford Explorer has been addressed and you need to reset it, here’s a simple process you can follow:
- Locate the diagnostic connector typically found under the dashboard of your Ford Explorer.
- Use an OBD-II scanner to connect to the diagnostic port.
- Follow the scanner’s instructions to reset the check engine light code.
Resetting the check engine light can help ensure that the issue has been resolved and give you peace of mind while driving your Ford Explorer.
Conclusion And Recommendations
If your 2017 Ford Explorer’s check engine light is on, it could be due to various reasons. We recommend having a diagnostic scan to identify the specific issue and receive a professional recommendation for the necessary repairs. Taking prompt action can prevent potential damage to your vehicle and ensure optimal performance.
Impact Of Location On Diagnosis
Vehicle location can affect check engine light diagnosis as environmental factors may impact sensor readings.
Handling A Flashing Check Engine Light
A flashing check engine light signals a critical issue, necessitating immediate attention to prevent severe damage.
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Frequently Asked Questions Of 2017 Ford Explorer Check Engine Light
Why Is My Check Engine Light On My 2017 Ford Explorer?
The check engine light on a 2017 Ford Explorer may come on due to various reasons. The most common cause is a failing oxygen sensor, which can be replaced by a local auto repair shop. It’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage.
What Is The Most Common Reason For Check Engine Light?
The most common reason for a check engine light is a failing oxygen sensor. Your local auto repair shop can quickly replace it to restore your vehicle’s exhaust system. A solid light indicates a lower severity, but you should still make an appointment for diagnosis.
A flashing light is critical and requires immediate attention.
How Serious Is A Solid Check Engine Light?
A solid check engine light indicates a problem that needs attention. It may be less severe for some cars, but it still requires diagnosis and repair. A flashing light is critical and requires immediate attention to prevent further damage. Ignoring it can lead to significant issues.
What Is The Most Probable Cause Of A Check Engine Light?
The most probable cause of a check engine light could be an issue with the emissions/exhaust system, such as an exhaust leak or catalytic converter problem. It could also be triggered by a failing mass airflow sensor.
Conclusion
When your Ford Explorer’s check engine light comes on, it’s crucial to address the issue promptly. Ignoring it could lead to potential damage to your vehicle. It’s best to have it diagnosed by a professional to accurately identify and resolve the underlying problem, ensuring the continued safety and performance of your vehicle.
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