2019 Ford Flex Has A Check Engine Light

Resolve Check Engine Light Issues in 2019 Ford Flex

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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 2019 Ford Flex 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 2019 Ford Flex 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 steps to diagnose the check engine light on a 2019 Ford Flex?

To effectively diagnose the check engine light on your 2019 Ford Flex, start with a thorough visual inspection of the vehicle. 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 check engine light. If everything appears normal, the next step is to utilize a diagnostic scanner. By connecting the scanner to the OBD-II port, you can retrieve any error codes that the vehicle's computer has logged. These codes are crucial as they provide specific insights into potential issues. Once you have the error codes, take the time to research their meanings, either through the vehicle's manual or reputable online resources. This will help you understand the underlying problems and guide your next steps. If the issue remains unclear or seems too complex to handle on your own, don’t hesitate to consult a qualified mechanic for a professional diagnosis. Following this methodical approach will empower you to tackle the check engine light issue with confidence.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2019 Ford Flex?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2019 Ford Flex, it can signal a range of issues that may require immediate attention. One of the simplest problems to check is a loose gas cap, which can easily be tightened to resolve the warning. More complex issues may involve the oxygen sensor, which, if faulty, can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and should be tested for proper function. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can cause the light to come on, indicating a need for inspection or replacement. Misfires due to faulty spark plugs or ignition coils are also common culprits, as they can disrupt engine performance. The mass airflow sensor plays a crucial role in maintaining the correct air-fuel mixture, and any malfunction here can trigger the light as well. Other potential issues include the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve, which can affect engine performance, and a faulty thermostat that may lead to overheating. Lastly, transmission problems, such as low fluid levels or failing components, can also illuminate the check engine light. For those looking to DIY, it’s essential to start with a diagnostic scan to pinpoint the exact issue before proceeding with repairs.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light on a 2019 Ford Flex?

When the check engine light illuminates on your 2019 Ford Flex, it’s crucial to take immediate action rather than dismissing it as a minor inconvenience. This warning light is a direct signal from your vehicle’s onboard diagnostics system, indicating that something may be amiss with the engine or emissions system. Ignoring this alert can lead to escalating issues, including severe engine damage, decreased fuel efficiency, and compromised vehicle performance. Moreover, unresolved problems can pose safety risks while driving, potentially leading to hazardous situations on the road. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle’s longevity but also enhance your driving experience. Utilizing diagnostic tools available for DIY enthusiasts can help you identify the specific issue, allowing for efficient troubleshooting and repairs. Ultimately, taking the initiative to resolve the check engine light promptly is a proactive step towards maintaining your Ford Flex’s optimal performance and ensuring your safety.

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