ANSWER: Sounds like it might need a tune up at the very least. Take it to AUTOZONE or most any aftermarket auto parts supplier, they can hook up a reader to your car and find out what code is being generated which will tell you almost exactly what is wrong. Most places are glad to do this for free since they are hoping you will buy your repair parts there.
you have a cylinder misfire
FORDS ARE A poc
zyou tps might be bad
the 96 fordwindstar sucks
if it idles rough too, check your plugs, if not, check your fuel filter.
Numerous things could cause this problem. Most of them are nothing to worry about. As long as you are talking about the AMBER "check engine light"... Since it blinks, I would check with a Dealer first. The blinking indicates a possible future problem. Once it is steady, the car has identified a problem. One thing to check... Make sure the gas cap is tight!!! No idea how the car runs or idles, so difficult to figure...bring it in.
NAPA and Precision Tune and Auto Zone have a free analyzer check. Use it.
Check your engine thermostat, it maybe stuck open, keeping the engine from dropping off high idle
ours was making a teerrible knocking noise like it was low on oil. also the check engine light was stuck on. had a shop replace some gaskets (upper manifold maybe?) and noise is gone.
Check timing. idle could also be set too low (rpms) so vibration is increased.
To much oil in an engine can cause it to flood which will then lead to blowing seals. But it should not effect how the car idles.
Engine coolant temp sensor. I would check codes if you have a ECT code replace the sensor. does the check engine light come on with key on engine off, If it doesn't replace bulb. If the engine light works check fuel preasure,