Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL)

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL)

Malfunction Indicator Lamp:

The Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) alerts the driver that the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) has detected an OBD emission-related component or system fault. When this occurs on a California calibrated engine, an OBD Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) will be set. On a federal calibrated engine and transmission, certain faults will also turn on the MIL.
- On all vehicles, the MIL is located on the instrument panel. On F-250/550 and Excursion, a symbol is used.
- Power is supplied to the MIL whenever the ignition switch is in the RUN or START position. The indicator is turned on by Standard Corporate Protocol (SCP) communications connected to the instrument cluster.
- An engine or transmission, with federal calibration, operating in the Failure Mode Effects Management (FMEM) will cause the MIL to be on.
- To turn off the MIL after a repair, a clear DTCs command from the Scan Tool must be sent.
- For any MIL concern, go to Symptom Charts.