2016 Ford Special Service Police Sedan Has Rough Idle

Resolve Rough Idle in 2016 Ford Special Service Police Sedan for a Smoother Ride

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
21% chance it's the
Spark Plugs
0%
15% chance it's the
Ignition Coil
0%
64% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2016 Ford Special Service Police Sedan has rough idle are a vacuum leak, an issue with the spark plugs, or a problem with the ignition coil.
  • Spark Plugs: Worn or fouled spark plugs can lead to misfires, poor fuel economy, and difficulty starting the engine.
  • Ignition Coil: A faulty ignition coil can cause misfires, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine due to inadequate spark delivery to the spark plugs.
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 2016 Ford Special Service Police Sedan has rough idle?

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.

Here are a few common symptoms of worn-out brake pads:

  1. Low brake pad warning light is on: Not all vehicles are equipped with this system, but if yours is, this dashboard indicator light will likely be the first signal it’s time to replace your brake pads.
  2. Brakes start to squeal regularly: This is often one of the first signs of worn brake pads and is caused by a metallic piece built into brake pads for this exact purpose. This part contacts the brake rotor to make a squealing or whining noise when the pads are low.
  3. Brakes make loud grinding noise: If not addressed early enough, your brake pads may get so worn that the metal backing plate of the pad grinds against the metal rotor.
  4. Brake pads look thin: You may be able to visually check your brake pad thickness to determine if they need replacement.

Most often, a brake system inspection will just be a routine portion of manufacturer specified maintenance, and will be performed at mileage intervals. In those cases, there will likely be no symptoms. However, when a brake system makes a funny noise, causes vibration, is hard to use, will not slow the vehicle, prevents the vehicle from driving, makes the vehicle pull to one side, or leaks brake fluid, the vehicle will need a visit dedicated to the inspection of the brake system.

What are the steps to diagnose a rough idle in a 2016 Ford Special Service Police Sedan?

To effectively diagnose a rough idle in your 2016 Ford Special Service Police Sedan, start by scanning for error codes using an OBD-II scanner, as this can quickly reveal any underlying issues. Next, perform a compression test to evaluate the engine's health, which can help identify mechanical problems. Inspect the spark plugs for wear or damage, as faulty plugs are a common cause of rough idling. Additionally, check for vacuum leaks in the lines, since these can disrupt the air-fuel mixture and lead to performance issues. Testing the ignition coil is also crucial, as a malfunctioning coil can cause misfires that contribute to a rough idle. If these initial steps do not resolve the problem, consult the specific service procedure steps for your vehicle to delve deeper into the issue. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address the cause of the rough idle, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly.

What are the common causes of rough idle in a 2016 Ford Special Service Police Sedan?

When dealing with a rough idle in a 2016 Ford Special Service Police Sedan, it's crucial to understand the common problems that may be at play. One of the primary culprits is a vacuum leak or a malfunctioning PCV valve, which can disrupt the air-fuel mixture and lead to unstable engine performance. Additionally, issues with fuel injectors, EGR valves, or low engine compression can further exacerbate rough idling. It's also important to consider the condition of the motor mounts; if they are broken or weak, they can cause the engine's RPMs to fluctuate, contributing to the rough idle experience. Other potential causes include faulty throttle position sensors and idle air control valves, which can affect how the engine manages air intake. Furthermore, heat soak from warm fuel, especially when mixed with ethanol, can lead to performance issues. Intermittent vacuum leaks, failures in cooling system components, and incorrect idle speed settings are additional factors that should not be overlooked. By systematically checking these components, DIYers can effectively diagnose and address the rough idle, ensuring their vehicle operates smoothly.

How urgent is it to address the rough idle in a 2016 Ford Special Service Police Sedan?

Addressing a rough idle in your 2016 Ford Special Service Police Sedan is not just a matter of convenience; it is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's performance and safety. A rough idle can indicate underlying issues such as fuel system malfunctions or engine problems that, if ignored, may escalate into more severe complications. This neglect can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and potential damage to critical engine components, which could result in costly repairs down the line. Moreover, a rough idle can compromise the vehicle's reliability, posing safety risks, especially in a police service context where performance is paramount. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize diagnosing and resolving the rough idle promptly to ensure your vehicle operates smoothly and safely, safeguarding both the driver and the community it serves.

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2016 Ford Special Service Police Sedan Rough Idle Solutions