2024 Ford F-150 Lightning Has A Check Engine Light

Resolve Check Engine Light Issue in 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning

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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 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning 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 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning 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.

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 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning, it's essential to approach the diagnosis methodically. Start by visually inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the light. Next, utilize an OBD-II diagnostic scanner to read the specific error codes, which will guide you toward the underlying problem. After that, check the levels of vital fluids like engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluid, as low levels can also cause the light to illuminate. Additionally, ensure that the battery terminals are clean and securely connected, since a weak battery can contribute to the issue. Finally, remain alert for any unusual noises or odors from the vehicle, as these can provide further clues about potential problems. By following these steps, you can effectively narrow down the cause of the check engine light and take appropriate action.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning?

When the check engine light comes on in your 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning, it’s crucial to understand the common issues that could be at play. One frequent culprit is a loose gas cap, which can easily be checked and tightened to see if the light turns off. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which not only affects fuel efficiency but can also lead to increased emissions; replacing this sensor can often resolve the problem. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can trigger the light and may require professional attention if they are malfunctioning. Worn or faulty spark plugs can also impact engine performance, leading to the check engine light illuminating, and replacing them is a straightforward DIY task. Furthermore, issues with the mass airflow sensor can result in poor engine performance, while faulty ignition coils may cause misfiring and rough idling. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to maintain your vehicle's performance and prevent further damage, so if you encounter the check engine light, consider these common problems as a starting point for your DIY troubleshooting.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2024 Ford F-150 Lightning, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it indicates potential issues within the engine or emissions system that require immediate attention. Ignoring this signal can lead to escalating problems, including costly repairs or even complete breakdowns, which can compromise your vehicle's reliability and safety. Fortunately, modern vehicles are equipped with sophisticated diagnostic systems that can help you identify the root cause of the issue. For DIY enthusiasts, this means you can use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that provide insight into what might be wrong. However, while some issues may be minor and easily fixable, others could pose significant safety risks or lead to severe engine damage if left unaddressed. Therefore, it is advisable to act promptly, either by diagnosing the problem yourself or seeking professional assistance to ensure your F-150 Lightning remains in optimal condition. By taking these steps, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance but also enhance your understanding of its mechanics, making you a more informed and capable owner.

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