2018 Ford Special Service Police Sedan Has Rough Idle

Resolve Rough Idle in 2018 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 2018 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 2018 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 2018 Ford Special Service Police Sedan?

When diagnosing a rough idle in a 2018 Ford Special Service Police Sedan, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before delving into more complex issues. Start by using a diagnostic scanner to check for fault codes, as these can quickly point you to specific problems within the vehicle's computer system. Next, inspect the spark plugs for wear or fouling, as these are often the culprits behind rough idling. A clean air filter is crucial for optimal airflow, so ensure it is free from dirt and debris. Following this, examine the fuel system, including the fuel filter and injectors, since blockages or malfunctions here can significantly impact engine performance. Don’t overlook the vacuum hoses; any cracks or leaks can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to idle issues. Additionally, test the mass airflow sensor, as a faulty sensor can misread air intake, causing rough idling. Finally, inspect and clean the throttle body to remove any carbon buildup that may hinder its function. By methodically addressing these areas, you can effectively diagnose and resolve the rough idle issue in your vehicle.

What are the common causes of rough idle in a 2018 Ford Special Service Police Sedan?

When experiencing a rough idle in your 2018 Ford Special Service Police Sedan, it's essential to consider several common issues that could be at play. One of the primary culprits is a dirty or clogged air filter, which can significantly restrict airflow to the engine, leading to an uneven idle. Additionally, worn or fouled spark plugs can cause misfires, further contributing to the roughness. Another critical component to check is the mass airflow sensor; if it's malfunctioning, it can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, resulting in poor idle quality. Fuel injectors also play a vital role; if they are clogged or leaking, they can hinder proper fuel delivery. Furthermore, vacuum leaks in the intake system can create unwanted air gaps, affecting engine performance and idle stability. Lastly, faulty ignition coils can lead to misfires, exacerbating the rough idle issue. By addressing these potential problems through regular maintenance and timely repairs, you can enhance the idle quality of your vehicle and ensure a smoother driving experience.

How urgent is it to address the rough idle in a 2018 Ford Special Service Police Sedan?

Addressing a rough idle in a 2018 Ford Special Service Police Sedan is not just a matter of comfort; it is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's performance and reliability, especially given its role in emergency response. A rough idle can indicate underlying mechanical issues that, if ignored, may escalate into more severe problems, potentially compromising the vehicle's functionality. This is particularly concerning for police vehicles, where consistent performance is essential for safety and operational readiness. Additionally, neglecting a rough idle can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and increased emissions, which not only affects the vehicle's performance but also has environmental implications. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs are key to preventing further damage, ultimately saving on costly repairs down the line. Therefore, while it may not seem like an immediate emergency, addressing a rough idle should be prioritized to ensure the vehicle operates at its best and remains reliable in critical situations.

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2018 Ford Special Service Police Sedan Rough Idle Solutions