I have 2001 escape xlt that had one of the "idiot" lights lit up on the dash. The light is the picture of the engine, so I assumed it is a general check engine light. My Ford dealer tells me that light is only for the emissions system, and nothing else.

This light came on twice, and both times the dealer fixed problems that pertained to the emissions. The first time was a loose hose on the vapor management valve, and the second was a loose hose on some kind of canister.

Is this light only for emissions? What light would come on if something like a tranny sensor goes bad?

 

The yellow engine light is different that the red engine light which could indicate low oil pressure or high temperature. The yellow MIL (malfunction Indicator Light) will come on if the PCM (Powertrain Control Module---truck's computer) sees a sensor reading or an output that it doesn't like.....such as a problem that will cause excess emissions. A transmission sensor problem can also turn on the light.

 

If your OD light flashes, that indicates a tranny problem.