2023 Ford Expedition Has A Check Engine Light

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

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
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60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2023 Ford Expedition 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 Expedition 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 2023 Ford Expedition?

When diagnosing the check engine light on your 2023 Ford Expedition, it's crucial to follow a methodical diagnostic approach that emphasizes simpler solutions first. Begin by inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a frequent culprit that can easily trigger the light. If the cap appears secure, the next step is to connect an OBD-II scanner to your vehicle's diagnostic port. This device will retrieve specific error codes that can help pinpoint the issue. After obtaining the error code, research its meaning using your vehicle's manual or trusted online resources to understand the potential problem. Additionally, take note of any other warning lights on your dashboard, as they may provide further insights into the issue at hand. Checking the levels of essential fluids, such as oil and coolant, is also advisable, as low fluid levels can sometimes cause the check engine light to activate. If these preliminary steps do not yield a clear diagnosis or if the issue seems more complicated, it may be necessary to consult a qualified mechanic or dealership for professional assistance. By adhering to this structured approach, you can effectively identify and address the underlying cause of the check engine light in your Ford Expedition, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal condition.

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

When the check engine light comes on in a 2023 Ford Expedition, it can be a source of concern for any DIY car owner. One of the most straightforward issues to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily trigger the light, so ensuring it is secure is a good first step. If the gas cap is fine, the next likely culprit could be the oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in fuel efficiency and emissions control. A malfunctioning sensor can lead to poor performance and should be inspected. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can also cause the check engine light to illuminate, often indicating a more serious issue that may require professional attention. Other common problems include faulty spark plugs or ignition coils, which can lead to engine misfires, and issues with the mass airflow sensor that affect engine performance. A malfunctioning thermostat can also trigger the light, especially if it leads to overheating. Lastly, don’t overlook the emission control system, as components like the EGR valve or EVAP system can also be responsible for the warning light. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to maintain your vehicle's performance and prevent further damage, making it wise to consult a qualified mechanic if the light remains on after your initial checks.

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

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2023 Ford Expedition, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it signals potential issues within your vehicle's engine or emissions system that could escalate if left unaddressed. Ignoring this alert can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and even severe engine damage, which can result in costly repairs. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that can pinpoint the underlying problem. This proactive approach allows you to assess whether the issue is something manageable, like a loose gas cap, or more serious, requiring professional intervention. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance and longevity but also enhance your safety on the road. Remember, timely action can prevent minor issues from becoming major headaches, making it crucial to take the check engine light seriously.

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