2021 Ford Transit-150 Has A Check Engine Light

Check Engine Light Issues in 2021 Ford Transit-150 and Their Resolutions

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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 2021 Ford Transit-150 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 2021 Ford Transit-150 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 2021 Ford Transit-150?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2021 Ford Transit-150, the first step is to conduct a thorough visual inspection. Start 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. Next, take a moment to observe the dashboard gauges for any irregular readings, such as abnormal temperature or oil pressure, which could signal more serious underlying issues. If these initial checks do not reveal the problem, consider using an OBD-II scanner to read the diagnostic trouble codes. This tool can provide specific error codes that pinpoint the issue, making it easier to address. Additionally, consulting the owner’s manual can offer insights into what the check engine light may indicate and suggest further actions. If the problem remains unclear or appears complex, it is wise to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic or a Ford dealership to ensure proper diagnosis and repair. By following these steps, you can effectively troubleshoot the check engine light and take informed actions to resolve the issue.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2021 Ford Transit-150?

When the check engine light illuminates in a 2021 Ford Transit-150, it signals potential issues that DIYers can often address themselves. Start by inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a frequent culprit that can trigger the light due to its impact on the vehicle's evaporative emission system. If the gas cap is secure, the next area to investigate is the oxygen sensor; a malfunction here can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and increased emissions, making it a vital component to check. Additionally, the catalytic converter should be examined, as any inefficiency or failure can also cause the check engine light to activate. Worn or faulty spark plugs are another common issue that can affect engine performance, so ensuring they are in good condition is crucial. Lastly, consider the mass airflow sensor, which measures the air entering the engine; a malfunction can disrupt the air-fuel mixture and lead to performance problems. By addressing these common issues promptly, you can help maintain your vehicle's performance and avoid more serious complications down the road.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2021 Ford Transit-150?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2021 Ford Transit-150, it signals a need for immediate attention, as neglecting this warning can lead to serious consequences. The light may indicate a range of issues, from minor sensor malfunctions to significant engine problems that could compromise your vehicle's performance and safety. Ignoring the check engine light not only risks escalating repairs but can also negatively impact fuel efficiency and increase harmful emissions, which is detrimental to both your wallet and the environment. For DIY enthusiasts, it’s crucial to understand that early diagnosis can save you time and money; using an OBD-II scanner can help you identify the specific trouble codes associated with the light. By addressing these issues promptly, you can maintain the reliability of your Transit-150 and prevent minor problems from developing into costly repairs, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal condition.

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