Should I take my Focus to the dealer for this check engine light?

Advice Needed
1

The check engine light came on. Should I bring it to the dealer, or is there a better option?

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2

AutoZone can read the code for free if you want to start there.

3

Blaze said:
AutoZone can read the code for free if you want to start there.

Thanks! I’ll check it out there first.

4

Blaze said:
AutoZone can read the code for free if you want to start there.

Just keep in mind they’ll only give you the code, not a full diagnosis. It’s a good starting point though.

5

@Vail
Isn’t getting the code part of diagnosing? You doing okay over there?

6

Arie said:
@Vail
Isn’t getting the code part of diagnosing? You doing okay over there?

Yeah, but it’s the only step they take. They’ll just sell you parts based on the code, not necessarily the root problem. Most of them aren’t mechanics, just parts guys.

7

@Vail
True, it’s not a complete solution, but it gives you a good place to start. Sometimes the actual issue isn’t even related to the fault code!

8

Nah, just take it to AutoZone or grab an OBD scanner from Amazon. Probably something simple like an O2 sensor if it’s higher mileage.

9

Shai said:
Nah, just take it to AutoZone or grab an OBD scanner from Amazon. Probably something simple like an O2 sensor if it’s higher mileage.

Is it still within the powertrain warranty mileage?

10

Shai said:
Nah, just take it to AutoZone or grab an OBD scanner from Amazon. Probably something simple like an O2 sensor if it’s higher mileage.

Are they in the UK?

11

Eli said:

Shai said:
Nah, just take it to AutoZone or grab an OBD scanner from Amazon. Probably something simple like an O2 sensor if it’s higher mileage.

Are they in the UK?

Nope, I’m in the USA.

12

Shai said:
Nah, just take it to AutoZone or grab an OBD scanner from Amazon. Probably something simple like an O2 sensor if it’s higher mileage.

Mileage? That’s low mileage! What do you mean?

13

@Arie
He means if it’s low miles, it might not need a dealer visit for something minor.

14

My check engine light has been on and off for the last 100k miles :man_shrugging:

15

Leith said:
My check engine light has been on and off for the last 100k miles :man_shrugging:

Ever tried cleaning the intake valves? Could be a carbon buildup issue.

16

Soren said:

Leith said:
My check engine light has been on and off for the last 100k miles :man_shrugging:

Ever tried cleaning the intake valves? Could be a carbon buildup issue.

Nope, but I’m at 208k miles and just keeping it running as long as possible. Not planning on big repairs at this point.

17

@Leith
Try using SeaFoam if you’re handy. I’ve taken a couple of cars over 300k miles with it. Here’s a DIY video if you’re interested.

18

Might be the purge valve.

19

Unless it’s under warranty, avoid the dealer. Try a local mechanic first.

20

Dealers are way overpriced. Get the code read and see if it’s something you can handle yourself.