2017 Ford Police Interceptor Utility Has A Check Engine Light

Resolve Check Engine Light Issues in 2017 Ford Police Interceptor Utility

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2017 Ford Police Interceptor Utility 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 2017 Ford Police Interceptor Utility 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 2017 Ford Police Interceptor Utility?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2017 Ford Police Interceptor Utility, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Next, take a moment to observe your dashboard gauges for any unusual readings, as these can offer clues about specific issues. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step, as it allows you to retrieve error codes from the vehicle's onboard computer, providing insight into the problem at hand. Additionally, inspect the condition of your spark plugs, as worn or faulty plugs can contribute to engine performance issues. Don't overlook the battery; ensure that the terminals are clean and securely connected, as a weak battery can also activate the check engine light. Finally, verify that all essential fluid levels—such as oil, coolant, and transmission fluid—are adequate, since low levels can lead to engine complications. By following these initial steps, you can effectively narrow down the potential causes of the check engine light and take informed action towards resolving the issue.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2017 Ford Police Interceptor Utility?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2017 Ford Police Interceptor Utility, it serves as an important alert that something may be amiss under the hood. Common issues that can trigger this warning include a faulty oxygen sensor, which can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and increased emissions. A loose or damaged gas cap is another frequent cause, as it can allow fuel vapors to escape, prompting the light to activate. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, such as inefficiency or failure, can not only trigger the check engine light but also impact overall vehicle performance. A malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the proper air-fuel mixture, leading to further performance issues. Moreover, issues with spark plugs or ignition coils can result in engine misfires, which are often indicated by the check engine light. Lastly, an engine misfire itself, which can arise from various factors including fuel delivery problems, can also illuminate this warning. It is essential for DIY enthusiasts to address these common issues promptly to ensure the vehicle operates efficiently and to prevent more serious damage down the line.

What are the potential risks and necessary actions for addressing the check engine light in a 2017 Ford Police Interceptor Utility?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2017 Ford Police Interceptor Utility, it is crucial to act swiftly to avoid serious repercussions. Ignoring this warning can lead to escalating issues that may compromise your vehicle's performance, fuel efficiency, and even safety. The light could signify a range of problems, from a simple gas cap issue to more complex engine or transmission failures. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily be fixed. If the light persists, using an OBD-II scanner to retrieve error codes will help you identify the specific problem. Addressing the issue promptly is essential, as delays can result in more extensive damage and costly repairs. If you find yourself unable to diagnose or resolve the issue, do not hesitate to consult a professional mechanic. Additionally, maintaining a regular service schedule can help prevent future occurrences of the check engine light, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal condition. By taking these proactive steps, you can safeguard your vehicle's longevity and performance while minimizing the risks associated with neglecting the check engine light.

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