The Ford Ranger is a rugged favorite across Australia and New Zealand, but when warning lights appear, quick diagnosis is key. Ignoring them can lead to costly repairs or even breakdowns.
So next, we will explore 3 Ford Ranger warning lights, their causes, and how to use FairTools' affordable OBD2 scanning tool for diagnosis and reset.
🔧 1. Check Engine Light (CEL)
What It Means
The engine warning light, often referred to as the "check engine" light, is one of the most common warning indicators on your Ford Ranger. It can illuminate for various reasons, ranging from a loose gas cap to more serious engine issues.
Actions to Take
- Check for a loose gas cap: A loose or damaged gas cap can trigger the engine warning light. Ensure it is tightened properly.
- Inspect other engine components: If the light remains on, have your vehicle inspected by a professional to use a diagnostic tool for preliminary diagnosis.
- Avoid ignoring the light: Ignoring this warning can lead to further engine damage.
Common Fault Codes
- P0401: EGR Flow Insufficient(EGR valve may be clogged or stuck due to carbon buildup )
- P0455: Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (Gross Leak / No Flow Condition)
Need a Diagnostic Tool?
✅ XTOOL XT80W – 8 inch wireless scanner with full-system diagnostics & ECU Coding
✅ Launch X431 PAD VII – 13.3 inch comprehensive ECU Programming diagnostic tool
💨 2. DPF Warning Light (Diesel Particulate Filter)
What It Means
The DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) warning light is a common alert on modern diesel vehicles, including the Ford Ranger. It signals that the exhaust after-treatment system is unable to properly regenerate or clean itself — and action is needed to avoid performance issues or engine damage.
Actions to Take
- Find a safe and well-ventilated area to stop your vehicle. Keep the engine running and avoid turning it off if regeneration is in progress.
- Check if manual regeneration is recommended for your model.
- Attempt Manual Regeneration or use a diagnostic tool to do it, according to the requirements of the vehicle.
- If the light remains on after regeneration to seek professional help.
Common Fault Codes
- P2002: DPF Efficiency Below Threshold – Filter clogged, failed regen
- P242F: DPF Overloaded – Regeneration impossible, may require service or replacement
How to solve it?
We can use automotive diagnostic equipment to do DPF Regeneration and help identify the source of the problem, fix and clear the fault code after finding the problem.
✅ Launch CRP239 – Supports 4 system diagnosis and 8 reset functions
✅ Autel MX808S –7 inch bi-directional scan tool
Oil Service / Maintenance Light
What It Means
The light typically comes on every 10,000–15,000 km or 6–12 months, depending on your driving conditions and service settings.
It may be triggered by: mileage interval reached, Oil life monitor detecting degradation (on newer models with intelligent monitoring), Time-based trigger (for long idle/fleet vehicles)
⚠️ While this light is not an emergency, ignoring it can lead to engine wear, poor performance, or even oil-related faults.
Actions to Take
Check Engine Oil Level and Condition
Check the oil level using the dipstick. If the oil is low, top it up using the correct oil grade recommended in your owner’s manual. If the oil is dirty, it may need to be changed.
Change the oil and oil filter
Use manufacturer-recommended oil grade, reset the maintenance reminder using the dashboard buttons or a scan tool.
Use a diagnostic tool
If the light remains after a service, a scan tool may be needed to reset it.
Common Fault Codes
- P0520: Engine Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch Circuit
- B1215 / B124D: Maintenance Reminder Active
Recommend DIY Scanner
✅ Launch CRE901 – Select 1 make software or 1 reset function
✅ Autel AP200 – Bluetooth OBD2 code reader
Warning lights are your Ranger’s way of asking for help. Whether it’s the engine light, DPF light, prompt action is key. If you need our help about the product, please feel free to contact us at any time