Questions and Answers

Service Engine Soon Q. Hi, I have a 1997 Ford Taurus GL with apr 40,000 miles on it, recent oil change. Automatic transmission, 3.0 liter, ABS, P/S, A/C, cruise control. The car runs just fine as far as I can tell, but now the "Service Engine Soon" light on the instrument cluster is on all the time.

I have no manual, and my owner's "guide" says that the Emission Control System requires service. Any ideas on what to check before I turn myself over to the mercy of a mechanic???

Have also noticed no problem with temp gauge, oil lamp, or any other lights/gauges in the car, only this one. Also no strange odors, smoke, hesitation, etc. All fluid levels checked and are okay. Any help would be appreciated!!!

Thanks,
Kellie

A. Some Fords have two lights, a Service Engine Soon light and Check Engine light. If your model has both, then the Service Engine Soon light is telling you the emissions system has to be checked and serviced. If there is no Check Engine light, then it serves the dual purpose of a service indicator and a Check Engine Light.

There was a bulletin number 99-1-5 issued by Ford on 1/25/95 concerning 1996-1997 Taurus and Sables. Basically it involves the recalibration of the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). It has been found that it will give false codes that will turn the light on.

Additional Information provided courtesy of ALLDATA