New guy here... I know this topic has probably been done to death but before I go see the local Ford dealer (who I already don't trust because of a $700 estimate to fix a minor AC problem) here's my issue for your sage advice...

Truck was running fine, with exception of minor AC problem, until I fueled last week. I'm thinking I got some bad gas... a day or two later I noticed a little hesitation at low speed, and a little sputtering. Next day the dreaded "check engine" light. I reset the light by disconnecting the battery and waiting for thirty minutes, reconnected and after about fifteen minutes of driving light returned. I have now run the suspected bad gas out and refilled... my dilema... do I reset the light again or wait to see if it clears? I still notice some hesitation and a bit of chatter at acceleration, nothing monumental though.

When do I break down and buy an OBD II scanner and how much should I spend? I've seen el-cheapos for around $60, professional grade for $500+ and looking through ebay I found a connector and program for my laptop for around $250. My other car is a 2000 Pontiac so if I buy something I would prefer that it is capable of reading both. Are there any concerns to be aware of by reading the codes myself... I have heard horror stories of people setting off airbags...

Should I just call it a day and take it to a shop and let them diagnose it for me???

Thanks in advance...

 

Try replacing the fuel filter b4 you spend big bucks. Your manual should describe the procedure for reading the pulse code, unless you have a real weirdo you should not need a scanner.

 

Go to autozone or anyother auto parts place and they will read your codes for free

 

Thanks... I guess I'll do that next.

Checked with the gas station today, as if they'd honestly tell me they had bad gas... they did reveal that the high octane, 93 I think, got mixed with the regular. I don't figure that would cause any problems...

Got cooler last night and now running a little rougher, so will probably seek help from the parts store today or tomorrow.

I noticed a lot of posts about different times to monitor... should I be asking for any specific tests?

 

Had a 0401 code... after reading several other MIL posts on here I decided to ordered a DPFE sensor. Hoping that fixes it.