Ford Escort check engine light Question:

This Ford Escort check engine light problem came when it would hesitate when running at highway speeds as if the engine is running out of gas. When this problem happened, the engine would also stall and later quit. It will re-start but it has no power. She had the engine IAC (Idle Air Control) valve replaced but the problem remained and the driver asked for my help. I plan to do a major tune up like spark plugs, wires and fuel filter. What bothers me though is when I scanned it, it has code 181 which showed cruising rich and bank 1 lean. Suggestion?

Ford Escort check engine light ATS Fix:

First of all, when testing Ford Escort check engine light with code 181, check the vacuum leak which can cause your engine to run lean. Next is to check the voltage readings of your oxygen sensor and see if it fluctuates between 0.2v to 0.9v. The oxygen sensor seems to be a common culprit on this especially with this code 181 and the symptom of hesitation. Try checking these:

Service the mass sensor for dirty wire elements
Check the fuel regulator for diaphragm fuel leakage
Check pcv valve for crack that would cause vacuum leak

Notes:

when testing vacuum leak for Ford Escort check engine light, use a water bottle spray mist. Do it when engine is idling and When you hit the leak, rpm should change if you have a vacuum leak. You can also use a vacuum gage hook up on one of the vacuum lines. At idle, expect a reading of 17 inch or higher. If you have a reading lower than this, also expect a vacuum leak. Finally, one of the best way to check the vacuum leak is to cover the intake air opening of your throttle body. If the engine has a vacuum leak, the engine will remain running, otherwise, it should quit running if there is no vacuum leak.

ATS Tip:

A bad running oxygen sensor can disrupt your fuel mixture and would cause hesitation and loss of power. Check with ATS for more details.

Thanks!

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