Just got a 2003 3.0L ranger at a auction, CEL not working, knew that before hand. I think the bulb has been blacked out or removed, just wanting to know if there is a fuse that controls the cel or am I going to have to pull the instrument panel to check / replace bulb ? thanks boots

 

As far as I'm aware, there is no such fuse for JUST the CEL. You'll likely have to pull the cluster and replace the bulb.

It's a #74 mini wedge bulb. If you want, you could probably get a whole sandwich bag full of them at a junkyard for 5 dollars or less, vs this.

Sylvania/Auto Trans Indicator Mini Bulb 74LL - Read Reviews on Sylvania #74LL

 

Check Fuse #11, 7.5amp, in cab fuse box, it powers most of the dash gauges, so if gauges are working then that's not the problem.

Yes you will need to pull the dash.
On the back of the dash there will be 3 wiring connectors, C220A, C220B, and C220C

On a 2003 ranger 3.0l the CEL bulb gets 12volts when key is turned on, this comes from C220B, wire 8, Red/yellow(also powers Fuel gauge).

Bulb needs to be Grounded to work(light up), PCM(computer) does that, C220B, wire 9, Pink/Light Green
This wire runs to the PCM Pin #2, PCM grounds this wire when key is turned on and runs a self test, if all is well or engine is started the PCM unGrounds Pin #2 and CEL will go off.
If there are codes that need attention, PCM Grounds Pin #2 again and CEL comes on.

 

Thanks, my next question was going to be what is the bulb #

 

Thanks, do the connectors unplug fairly easy or are they hard & brittle ?

 

Most of the time they unplug rather easily, although some may be a little stubborn. Never had any break though. They're not exposed to any heat (like hot engine bay in the middle of july) or sunlight so one becoming brittle would be rare. A good pair of gloves will help you grip them, so you may want those. Do refrain from using any hand tools, though.

 

Ok, again thanks