CEL rapidly & erratically blinking without code. Horribly rough idle will not accelerate

Discussion in '1998 - 2011 Ford Ranger' started by Carolina Drifter, Dec 24, 2021.

  1. Carolina Drifter

    Carolina Drifter New Member

    Hi guys - new to forum. 98 4WD with 3L. During idle, CE light flickers erratically but no code. Early on, racing the engine would stop the issue for a few minutes. Trouble began two days ago but is rapidly getting worse. Replaced Air filter and cleaned MAF with CRC MAF cleaner per directions on can but no improvement. Considering plugs/wires, vacuum leak, new MAF but hate to just swap out parts $$$$$.
    Thoughts??
     
  2. Ranger Forum Sign Up!

    Join RangerForum.com Today - It's Totally Free!

    Are you a Ford Ranger fan? If so we invite you to join our community and see what it has to offer. Our site is specifically designed for you and it's a great place for Ford Ranger Fans to meet online.
    Once you join you'll be able to post messages, upload pictures of your Ford, and have a great time with other Ranger fans. Whether your an old timer or just bought your Ford you'll find that Ranger Forum is a great community to join. Best of all it's totally free!

    Join RnagerForum.com Today! JOIN FOR FREE

  3. OP
    Carolina Drifter

    Carolina Drifter New Member

    BTW, 48K miles on motor.
     
  4. RangerAl

    RangerAl Member

    vacuum leak or IAC may also need to be clean or replace
     
  5. OP
    Carolina Drifter

    Carolina Drifter New Member

    Thank you for assisting me. I have confirmed steady 1.2 VDC output from MAF sensor at idle, smooth output as engine RPMs go up/down. I'll replace IAC today/tomorrow and report.
    Thanks again for your help,
    Carolina
     
  6. OP
    Carolina Drifter

    Carolina Drifter New Member

    After weeks of maddening troubleshooting, I have taken it to my mechanics who cleared all error codes (MIL not illuminated) and report the issue no longer occurs. Enough to make a preacher cuss.

    Many thanks for the kind assistance,

    Carolina
     
  7. RangerAl

    RangerAl Member

    Glad things worked out for you. :)
     

Share This Page