2CarPros editorial correction - October 12, 2026
The dealer advice described below to ignore the engine warning unless it turns red is not a safe rule. Identify the warning by the owner's manual and have the recurring code diagnosed; do not wait for a color change. A separate intermittent brake warning also requires assessment. If the pedal is low, braking is impaired or brake fluid is leaking, do not drive; arrange recovery. The historical account below concerns another participant's Escort, not a confirmed repair of the original owner's car.
--- Historical participant report; see correction above ---
I have the same problem. Drove my 99 Escort off the lot and boom, the check engine (orange) came on. I asked the dealer to check and they said it was an emissions sensor or something like that and not to worry. They said if it turns red, bring it in. Mr. Lube celared the code when I went in for my regular oil change, drove out of the servioce bay and boom, it came right back on again. My car has been fine though. Got it at 119,000 kms. It's at 160,000 now. Only had to replace the rear coil springs and ball joints.
I do have a problem with my brake indicator light going on and off sporatically when the engine is cold. Seems to get better when the car has warmed up, but I'm wondering if this is to tell me to get the brakes checked? Any ideas?
Jan 26, 2006 at 7:47 AM
