Questions and Answers

Ford Escort Check Engine Light On Q. Hi Vince, The car is a 1995 Ford Escort LX with a 1.9 liter engine, automatic transmission, A/C, P/S and fuel injection. It has about 180,000 miles on it. It usually starts right up and idles fine. After a moment, and sometimes when driving, a "Check Engine Light" will come on. At the same time, if stopped at a light or just preparing to pull out of driveway, it will seem to "idle down" a bit, nearly to the point of cutting off.

Had a full tune-up less than six months ago, including wires, PCV valve and fuel filter. Also had the TPS replaced at the same time. Appreciate your help and suggestions!

Paul
Fayetteville, NC

A. If the Check Engine Light (CEL) came on, a Diagnostic Trouble (DTC) has been stored in the computer. You will need to retrieve this code to find out what the problem is. From the symptoms you describe, I would suspect it will have something to do with the Idle Air Control Valve (IACV) or related system.

See Diagnostic Trouble Codes for instructions on retrieving the codes and what they mean.