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elisaschwarz66

Explorer Check Engine Light Fuel Consumption

Hi, I'm having trouble with my 2000 Ford Explorer with a gasoline engine. The check engine light keeps coming on, and I've noticed my fuel consumption has gone up significantly. My car has 201552 km on it. I've read it might be something to do with the variable timing, maybe the VANOS solenoid? Could it also be related to the timing chain, resulting in low power? Any ideas?

4 comment(s)

LarsPete

Hey, I had a similar issue with my Explorer, although it wasn't the timing chain. The check engine light and increased fuel consumption sound familiar. Did you notice any difference in the engine's performance or any unusual noises? Have you had the fault codes read?

elisaschwarz66 (Author)

Thanks for the reply! I did notice a slight decrease in power, especially when accelerating. As for the fault codes, I haven't had them read yet. I wanted to get some opinions before heading to a workshop. You mentioned a similar issue - what did it end up being for you, and how did you fix it?

LarsPete

Yeah, the low power thing sounds like what I experienced too. Turns out, for me, it was a faulty VANOS solenoid valve, like you suspected. It could also be the power supply to the solenoid. Honestly, without reading the codes, it's hard to be sure. I'd recommend getting the codes read; it'll save you a lot of guesswork. I ended up taking it to a workshop.

elisaschwarz66 (Author)

Thanks a lot for your help! I'll take your advice and get the fault codes read. It sounds like the VANOS solenoid valve is a likely culprit. I'll post what I find. The workshop confirmed it was the inlet VANOS mechanics. The repair cost 250€.

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