Ford Escape Owner's Manual page 13

Check engine: The Check Engine
indicator light illuminates when the
ignition is first turned to the RUN
position to check the bulb and to
indicate whether the vehicle is ready for Inspection/Maintenance (I/M)
testing. Normally, the Check Engine light will stay on until the engine is
cranked, then turn itself off if no malfunctions are present. However, if
after 15 seconds the Check Engine light blinks eight times, it means
that the vehicle is not ready for I/M testing. See the Readiness for
Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) testing in the Maintenance and
Specifications chapter.
Solid illumination after the engine is started indicates the On Board
Diagnostics System (OBD-II) has detected a malfunction. Refer to On
board diagnostics (OBD-II) in the Maintenance and Specifications
chapter. If the light is blinking, engine misfire is occurring which could
damage your catalytic converter. Drive in a moderate fashion (avoid
heavy acceleration and deceleration) and have your vehicle serviced
immediately by your authorized dealer.
Under engine misfire conditions, excessive exhaust temperatures
could damage the catalytic converter, the fuel system, interior
floor coverings or other vehicle components, possibly causing a fire.
Check fuel cap: Illuminates when
the fuel cap may not be properly
installed. Continued driving with
this light on may cause the Check
engine warning light to come on,
refer to Fuel filler cap in the
Maintenance and Specification chapter.
Brake system warning light: To
confirm the brake system warning
light is functional, it will
momentarily illuminate when the
ignition is turned to the RUN
position when the engine is not running, or in a position between RUN
and START, or by applying the parking brake when the ignition is turned
to the RUN position. If the brake system warning light does not
illuminate at this time, seek service immediately from your authorized
dealer. Illumination after releasing the parking brake indicates low brake
2008 Escape (204)
Owners Guide (post-2002-fmt)
USA (fus)
Instrument Cluster
! P
BRAKE
13