2017 Ford Transit Connect Has A Check Engine Light

Resolve Check Engine Light Issues in 2017 Ford Transit Connect

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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 Transit Connect 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 Transit Connect 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 Transit Connect?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2017 Ford Transit Connect, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by checking the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the light. Next, examine your dashboard for any additional warning lights or messages that might indicate other underlying problems. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step; it allows you to retrieve error codes from the vehicle's computer, providing specific insights into the issue at hand. Additionally, visually inspect components such as spark plugs, wires, and hoses for any signs of wear or damage that could be contributing to the problem. Finally, monitor your vehicle's performance for any irregularities like rough idling or stalling, as these symptoms can further guide your diagnosis. By following these initial steps, you can effectively narrow down the cause of the check engine light and take appropriate action to resolve it.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to activate in a 2017 Ford Transit Connect?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2017 Ford Transit Connect, it can be a source of concern for any DIY vehicle owner. One of the simplest issues to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap can easily trigger the light, so ensuring it is secure is a good first step. If that’s not the issue, consider inspecting the oxygen sensor, as a faulty one can lead to poor fuel efficiency and increased emissions. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can also cause the light to illuminate, often indicating a more serious issue that may require professional attention. Spark plugs are another common culprit; worn or faulty plugs can lead to engine misfires, which will activate the check engine light. Furthermore, the mass airflow sensor plays a crucial role in maintaining the correct air-fuel mixture, and any malfunction here can disrupt engine performance. Lastly, a defective ignition coil can lead to significant engine performance issues, making it essential to check this component as well. By understanding these common problems, DIY enthusiasts can take proactive steps to diagnose and potentially resolve the issues causing the check engine light to activate, ensuring their Ford Transit Connect runs smoothly.

What immediate actions should be taken for a 2017 Ford Transit Connect with a check engine light?

When the check engine light illuminates on your 2017 Ford Transit Connect, it’s crucial to act swiftly to avoid serious repercussions. Ignoring this warning can lead to significant engine damage or safety hazards, as underlying issues may worsen over time. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily be fixed. Next, observe your dashboard for any additional warning lights or irregularities that might indicate a more serious problem. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner to retrieve the error code is a vital step, as it provides specific insights into what might be wrong with your vehicle. If you notice any performance issues, such as rough idling or a decrease in power, it’s advisable to seek professional assistance immediately. A steady check engine light suggests that while the situation may not be urgent, it’s still essential to schedule maintenance soon to prevent further complications. Remember, timely intervention not only safeguards your vehicle’s performance but also protects your safety on the road.

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2017 Ford Transit Connect Check Engine Light Causes