Check engine light

Have a 1999 Ford Windstar and the check engine light will not come on when the key is turned on. Is this more than likely a bulb?

Assuming the vehicle starts and runs, then yes, the bulb is the most likely culprit. I recently replaced all the bulbs in the instrument panel of my '96 Windstar, as several burned out. However they were only the ones that illuminated the cluster, and none of the indicator bulbs had gone bad. All the bulbs are the same. If the MIL was on for an extended time I could see that it would burn out.

Is it very hard to replace? The van starts and runs fine.

you know, I've often thought that IF my CEL light burned out would I take the time to replace it??

I wonder if this is a blessing in disguise

:grinyes:

Problem is; in order to pass E-check it must be operational.

yep I know :uhoh: but I guess I'd just like a month to go by without another CEL code!

It requires that you first remove several pieces of plastic molding from the interior to expose the instrument cluster attachment screws. Mine has a mechanical instrument cluster, so removing the cluster required disconnecting the speedometer cable, which is probably the most difficult step. This requires that either disconnecting the speedometer cable intermediate joint inside the engine compartment (roughly on the driver side), or reaching up under the dash and disconnecting the cable from the back of the cluster (very awkward).

I believe the electronic speedometer is much easier to remove from the dash. Once it's out, the bulbs are easy to remove and replace.

Any idea which fuse i should check first? thanks for your help.

Hello

Dashes can be a pain to pull apart. However, once you've done one they're all very simular. The trim either pops off or has hidden screws. I usally pull/pry and try not to leave marks and not break anything.

Another thing to keep in mind that there are sharp edges inside of the dash.

I guess I'm saying experience is the best teacher.

Regards
Dan