2023 Ford Escape Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2023 Ford Escape: Common Causes and Solutions

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2023 Ford Escape 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 2023 Ford Escape 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 are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2023 Ford Escape?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2023 Ford Escape, the first step is to conduct a thorough visual inspection. Begin by checking the gas cap; ensure it is securely tightened and free from damage, as a faulty gas cap is a common trigger for the warning light. Next, utilize an OBD-II scanner to connect to your vehicle's diagnostic port. This tool will provide you with specific error codes that can pinpoint the underlying issue. Once you have the error code, take the time to research its meaning, focusing on potential causes that are relevant to your model. Additionally, inspect essential fluids such as engine oil and coolant to confirm they are at appropriate levels, as low fluids can also activate the check engine light. Pay close attention to any noticeable changes in your vehicle's performance, such as rough idling or stalling, as these symptoms can offer further insights into the problem. If these initial steps do not lead to a resolution, or if the issue appears to be more complex, it may be necessary to consult a professional mechanic for advanced diagnostics and repairs. By following this structured approach, you can effectively troubleshoot the check engine light and potentially save on repair costs.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2023 Ford Escape?

When the check engine light comes on in your 2023 Ford Escape, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common problems can help you diagnose the issue before seeking professional help. One of the simplest causes could be a loose gas cap, which is easy to check and fix. If the gas cap is secure and the light remains on, consider inspecting the oxygen sensor, as a faulty sensor can lead to poor fuel efficiency and increased emissions. Additionally, issues with the catalytic converter can also trigger the light, often indicating a more serious problem that may require immediate attention. Spark plug wear or malfunction can affect engine performance, leading to misfires that illuminate the check engine light. Similarly, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, while problems with the ignition coil can cause misfiring as well. Lastly, don’t overlook the EGR valve, as issues here can also result in the check engine light being activated. By being aware of these common issues, you can take the first steps in troubleshooting your vehicle, potentially saving time and money on repairs.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2023 Ford Escape?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2023 Ford Escape, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning signal is not merely a nuisance; it indicates that your vehicle's onboard diagnostics have detected a potential issue that could range from a minor sensor malfunction to a serious engine problem. Ignoring this light can lead to a cascade of complications, including reduced fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and even severe engine damage, which can be costly to repair. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that can provide insight into the specific issue at hand. This proactive approach allows you to assess whether the problem is something you can address yourself or if it requires professional intervention. Remember, timely action not only preserves your vehicle's performance but also ensures your safety on the road, making it crucial to take the check engine light seriously and act swiftly.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.