Check engine light??

[Vito117]

So why does this engine light come on then off....then on every once in a while as i drive?
I've checked everything...oil, plugs..belts...
Car does have 130k on it.
So whats up here.?...some sort of Ford scam to get ya into the shop for repairs ya dont need?

 

[Nebraska SHO]

My 92 did that and it was the O2 sensors. You should run the codes and they will tell you. If you are not sure what the code means post it here. I am sure SDpatt knows. T thumbs_u hat Man Rocks

 

[naval-avi8or]

You first need to run the codes to find out what codes the computer is storing for the light. My guess is 332 Insufficant EGR flow (nostrils need cleaned). This is the only code that I know that doesn't result in drivability problems. If any one else knows any other codes that don't cause drivability issuse please post so I'll know.

 

[sdpatt]

When the CHECK ENGINE light illuminates, even for a split second, an error code has been stored in the EEC. All you have to do is ask it what the code was. Below is a good site to teach you how to check the EEC codes. The 2-digit (1989-1991) and 3-digit (1992+) codes are available through the links near the top of the site. All you need is a jumper wire between the separate Self Test Input connector and the Signal Return terminal of the larger plug. These plugs are near the firewall on the passenger side of the engine compartment. The Gen II SHOs even had a cover for the connectors with EEC TEST printed on it.

http://www.dalidesign.com/hbook/eectest.html

The fact that the CHECK ENGINE light illuminated then extinguished indicates that the fault condition existed then cleared. The fault code will be stored in the memory codes, the second batch of codes displayed during the Key Off Engine Off (KOEO) test. One of the few conditions that will fault and clear like you mentioned is one of the oxygen sensors either not switching or showing lean or rich. The code will tell you which sensor and which fault mode it was.

Chances are though, that if it is an O2 sensor, they are old enough that you would be better off replacing both of them. A good source of the Bosch sensors is AutoZone or AutoZone.com. Their database is accurate for the O2 sensors for the various SHOs.

3.0L: Bosch 13942 $33.99
3.2L: Bosch 13223 or 15716 $40.99