2020 Ford Transit-350 HD Has A Check Engine Light

Check Engine Light Issues in 2020 Ford Transit-350 HD and Their Resolutions

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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 2020 Ford Transit-350 HD 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 2020 Ford Transit-350 HD 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 2020 Ford Transit-350 HD?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2020 Ford Transit-350 HD, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by visually inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the light. Next, take a moment to observe the dashboard gauges for any irregular readings, such as abnormal temperature or oil pressure, which may indicate underlying problems. If these initial checks do not reveal the issue, consider using an OBD-II scanner to retrieve the error codes associated with the check engine light; this tool can provide specific insights into the problem at hand. Additionally, consulting your vehicle's owner's manual can offer valuable information regarding the potential causes of the warning light and recommended actions. If these steps do not lead to a resolution or if the situation appears complex, seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or dealership is advisable to ensure proper diagnosis and repair. By following this structured approach, you can effectively troubleshoot the check engine light and take informed steps toward resolving the issue.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2020 Ford Transit-350 HD?

When the check engine light comes on in your 2020 Ford Transit-350 HD, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common problems that may cause this warning can empower you to take action. One of the simplest issues to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily trigger the light, so ensure it is securely fastened. If the gas cap is not the culprit, consider inspecting the oxygen sensor, as a faulty sensor can lead to poor fuel efficiency and emissions issues. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, such as blockages or failures, can also illuminate the check engine light, indicating a need for further investigation.

Another area to examine is the mass airflow sensor, which plays a crucial role in regulating the engine's air-fuel mixture; a malfunction here can affect performance. Worn or faulty spark plugs and ignition coils can lead to engine misfires, which will also trigger the light, so checking these components is essential. Lastly, don’t overlook the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system, as clogs or failures in this system can cause the check engine light to activate. By systematically checking these common issues, you can potentially resolve the problem without needing to visit a mechanic, saving time and money while ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2020 Ford Transit-350 HD?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2020 Ford Transit-350 HD, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it indicates potential issues within your vehicle's engine or emissions system that could escalate if left unaddressed. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can provide insight into the specific problem. Ignoring the light can lead to more severe damage, such as engine misfires or overheating, which may result in costly repairs. Additionally, driving with the check engine light on can negatively impact fuel efficiency and increase harmful emissions, further compromising your vehicle's performance. Therefore, it is advisable to investigate the cause of the light as soon as possible, whether through self-diagnosis or by consulting a qualified mechanic, to ensure your Transit-350 HD remains in optimal condition and to prevent any safety risks associated with unresolved engine issues.

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2020 Ford Transit-350 HD Check Engine Light Issues