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Old Dec 17, 2008 | 08:02 AM
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Service Engine Soon

I have an 03, V6 F150 with about 86k on it. Recently and about this same time last year my "Service Engine Soon" light came on. I should mention that in Ohio we are in that transition phase of the year where it can be 50 one day and 20 the next. Last year I switched out my ignition coil and plug wires and the problem went away. The manual says that if this light comes on that there could be an issue with the emission control system. Has anyone else had this problem and what did you do to fix it?
 
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Old Dec 17, 2008 | 08:44 AM
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You need to get the codes pulled. A lot of times it is an oxygen sensor that goes bad and throws the light if there are no driveability problems but there is no way to know for sure without getting the code read.
 
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Old Dec 17, 2008 | 09:50 AM
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Thanks, I'll give that a go.
 
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Old Dec 18, 2008 | 12:40 AM
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With respect, you don't replace parts before you know what you are trying to fix.
What system is the code telling you is in trouble?
 
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Old Dec 18, 2008 | 02:46 AM
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I would also look into pulling a code first but could be an O2 sensor.

Also, I heard that plugged cats may be the culprit for such problems.
 
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Old Dec 18, 2008 | 06:16 AM
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"Plugged cats"?
 
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Old Dec 18, 2008 | 08:12 AM
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Good grief.. well-meaning but some useless, some useful advice

Repeating Bluegrass' and Galaxie's advice, ALWAYS get the diagnostic codes read, NEVER start replacing parts.

There are hundreds of possible faults that cause a CEL/SES light. As Dirty Harry said, "Are you feeling lucky...". Anyone who thinks they can diagnose this fault remotely without any additional information is deluded.

Steve
 
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