Ford Repair: 1999 Explorer check engine light, exhaust gas oxygen, ring gaskets
Question-------------------------If the o-ring gaskets are bad and need replacing would this solve the emission problem? Thanks.
Followup To
Question -
My Explorer will not pass the Smog inspection test, because the Check Engine Light is on. I had a diagnostic test taken which revealed that the oxygen sensors were bad. I replaced all of them. The light went off temporary, but came back on. My problem is I can not get state tags for my this vehicle if it does not pass the Smog Inspection. And I definitely cannot keep putting good money on a bad situation. I need this problem fixed. I read a previous question submitted to you regarding this same problem. You cited two problematic parts...O-ring gaskets and Air Control Valve. In today's market, how much would it cost to have the o-ring gaskets replaced and/or the Air Control Valve cleaned? Thanks.
Answer -
I would definitely recommend that the vehicle be properly diagnosed before replacing any more parts. If the intake o-ring gaskets are bad, the upper intake must be removed to replace them. This would probably cost around 2.5 hours labor ($190) and $35 in parts. Cleaning the IAC is not a FMC approved repair; if it is bad, a dealer would only replace it. This repair would probably cost around 1.5 hours labor ($117) and $90 in parts. A bad IAC would cause poor idle quality and/or stalling concern, but I doubt it would cause a failed emissions test.
I hope this helps,
Dave
AnswerIf your Check Engine light is on, the codes in the system will indicate where the problem is. It is nearly impossible for all of the Exhaust Gas Oxygen sensors to go bad at the same time. If the o-rings are leaking, they would be allowing unmetered air into the intake. If the codes in the system all indicate a lean mixture, the o-rings could be the likely cause. I couldn't say for certain that replacing the o-rings will solve your problem without more information or testing.
I hope this helps,
Dave
