Check Engine light - Ford Forums

CharlesL · 06-26-2008, 18:45

96 V6 Contour has the check engine light on most of the time since new. No one can find so far the problem and we ignore it. Car runs likes a charm with only 44K on it. Cannot smog vehicle as light is on now and it will automatically fail. All four previous smogs were just fine. Use to have same problem with check brakes light, but out for some time now. Any ideas with this type problem on this model and year appreciated. Hate to take it to Ford for $125 just to tell me it has a light problem and then how much??

thefonz · 06-27-2008, 05:01

What code are you getting? Have the codes cleared and then have them check for any 'codes pending'

CharlesL · 06-27-2008, 11:23

No one ever told me what code it got, but just saw on another site to remove any battery cable and replace after 4-5 minutes. It work!

If it had not I was going to try the below;

Autonostics :: OBD II Car Checkers :: OBD II CODE READER & RESET TOOL

Thanks.

Ernest · 06-27-2008, 11:49

Here is a basic suggestion.
Could be the evaporative emissions system.
The system requires that your gas cap is on tight. Turn it until it clicks.
Check engine lights are always emissions control related.

CharlesL · 06-29-2008, 18:30

The battery trick did it and the light is out? Onward to getting a smog test.

12 years living with that problem and such a simple fix..