2000 Ford Escort Engine Performance

Have you checked for vacuum leaks?

I was questioning the rough idle. Does the vehicle have a turbo? What is the car doing now?

I still say there is a vacuum leak. If the check engine light was on, then I would say it is electrical / sensor.

I understand. THey are hard to find. The best I can tell you is to open the hood and start looking. Sometimes with the engine running, you will hear a hissing sound.

Many mechanics will spray the vacuum hoses and around the intake with carb cleaner or starting fluid. If there is a leak, the engine will rev. The only concern is the chance of fire. If the spray hits an area that is hot enough, it will cause a fire, so you have to be careful and keep a fire extinguisher near by that is designed to put out grease / oil / fuel fires.

I know it doesn't sound fun, but that is what most do.

The light could under certain conditions. However, if you hear a hissing sound, that is half the battle. With the engine cold, start it and spray some carb cleaner in the area of the noise. If the engine revs up, you found the leak. It is just a matter of locating the specific hose.

NOTE: Carb cleaner is flamable. Be careful when doing this. If could cause a fire. Make sure to have a fire extinguisher near by for oil fires and avoid spraying directly onto extremely hot engine parts such as an exhaust manifold.

Let me know what you find. And yes, I feel the dealer could find the problem.

Joe