2021 Ford EcoSport Has A Check Engine Light

Resolve Check Engine Light Issues in 2021 Ford EcoSport

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2021 Ford EcoSport has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2021 Ford EcoSport has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What steps should I take to diagnose the check engine light on my 2021 Ford EcoSport?

When diagnosing the check engine light on your 2021 Ford EcoSport, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler solutions before delving into more complex diagnostics. Start by checking for any additional warning lights on your dashboard, as these can provide clues about specific issues. Next, inspect the gas cap to ensure it is securely tightened, as a loose cap is a common trigger for the check engine light. Following this, visually examine the engine bay for any signs of damage to wires, hoses, or connectors, which could indicate underlying problems. If these initial checks do not resolve the issue, connect a diagnostic scanner to the OBD-II port to retrieve any error codes stored in the vehicle's computer system. Make sure to note these codes, as they will guide your next steps. Researching the error codes online or consulting a mechanic can help you understand the specific issues at hand. Finally, based on the information gathered, address the underlying problem to turn off the check engine light and ensure your vehicle runs smoothly. This methodical approach not only helps in identifying the issue but also empowers you to take informed actions towards resolving it.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to activate in a 2021 Ford EcoSport?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2021 Ford EcoSport, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common problems that may cause this warning can empower you to take action. One frequent culprit is a loose gas cap, which can easily be checked and tightened to potentially resolve the issue. Another common problem is a faulty oxygen sensor, which affects fuel efficiency and emissions; if you notice a drop in performance, this may be worth investigating. Additionally, issues with the catalytic converter can lead to significant engine problems, so it's crucial to address any related symptoms promptly. Worn-out spark plugs can also trigger the check engine light, often accompanied by engine misfires, indicating that they may need replacement. Furthermore, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the engine's air-fuel mixture, leading to performance issues. Lastly, a failing ignition coil can cause engine performance problems and should be checked if the light remains on. While some of these issues can be diagnosed and resolved at home, it’s always wise to consult a qualified mechanic for a thorough diagnosis to prevent further damage and ensure your vehicle runs smoothly.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2021 Ford EcoSport?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2021 Ford EcoSport, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it indicates that your vehicle's engine or emissions system may be experiencing issues that could range from minor to severe. Ignoring this signal can lead to escalating problems, potentially resulting in costly repairs and diminished vehicle performance. For DIY enthusiasts, it is crucial to act swiftly by conducting a preliminary diagnostic check, such as using an OBD-II scanner, to identify any trouble codes. This proactive approach not only helps in understanding the underlying issues but also aids in preventing further damage that could compromise the safety and reliability of your vehicle. Therefore, addressing the check engine light promptly is vital for maintaining the health of your EcoSport and ensuring a smooth driving experience.

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2021 Ford EcoSport Check Engine Light: Causes & Solutions