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Lights Out
by Bob DeP. AskBob@stretcher.com
Hi Bob,
I have a 1998 Ford Explorer. Recently the check engine light came on and stayed on. I took it to the local Ford dealer service shop for a diagnostic test. They told me that I needed to replace the spark plugs and plug wires. I took the vehicle to my regular mechanic and had the work done, but the check engine light is still on. Should it have gone off after the problem was fixed? Was it necessary to have the work done by a Ford service center?
Darlene
Darlene,
The mechanic that did the tune up (or any mechanic for that matter) would have to reset the light. If that was all that was wrong, I think the light will reset within 14 days after the last occurrence of the malfunction. The computer is actually quite smart. It can tell you exactly which plug is not firing correctly. I recently went through this and was amazed when the computer said "misfire cylinder #8". Low and behold, #8 plug was all fouled out and not firing. The problem turned out to be a bad ignition wire.
Good Luck!
Drive Safely!
Bob, The Auto Answer Man
If you have a question for Bob send it to: . He's able to answer many of them personally and we'll include the best questions in future issues of The Dollar Stretcher.
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