Seems like the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) is acting up. Among other things, the TPS would cause the Check Engine Light to light up. Check the code(s) stored on the self-diagnosatic system memory to be sure.
On a 1997 Ford Explorer : CHECK ENGINE is just to the left of the " C " on the engine coolant temperature gauge ( Helpfull )
After the Explorer is scanned for trouble codes to diagnose and then repair the malfunction , then the check engine light can be reset
According to the 2000 Ford Explorer Owner Guide : No , a separate fuse for the check engine light is not listed
might need to check your engine soon
The check engine light is the light shaped like an engine, or the light that states Check Engine (Soon). If this light comes on, it is time to see what the issue is with the engine.
If the check engine light is flashing that means an engine cylinder misfire has been detected
If your check engine light is staying on with the engine running , a malfunction has been detected with the emission control system . Have your Explorer scanned for any trouble codes to diagnose and repair the problem
Check the back of the engine on either side.
Click the link.
The check engine light comes on when the engine computer has detected a malfunction and set a trouble code.
The check engine light does not generally have anything to do with the check oil light. The oil light just indicated it is time to change the oil, while the engine light indicates a problem.
Sorry , there isn't a reset button - you have to have the Explorer scanned to find the trouble code(s) that caused the check engine light to come on . The problem has to be repaired before the check engine light can be turned off by using the OBD II scan tool