At ~2800 miles the boss started getting the check engine light. A couple times came on then went off later. This last one remains for the last few days. The performance of the car hasn't changed.

I took it to Ford Service for a quick code check. Here's what I get:
P0131-E8
P064D00-68
P164600-68

This is all new to me so an internet search brought up this http://www.motorcraftservice.com/vdi.../OBDSM1202.pdf

From what I can tell, the codes I'm getting have to do with O2 sensors. The mechanic said it wasn't urgent to get fixed but to make an appointment for full diagnosis and repair.

Anyone have knowledge of these codes and how critical they may be?

 

O2 sensor is the default diganosis Any mods to steer you in the right direction? I was getting a bad throttle surging at the track last week and then it fell on its face during idle. I was getting a P2195 and P2197 which I'd never seen. It said either fuel filter or......drum roll.......O2 sensor! I figured vacuum leak. First thing I checked was my oil separator on the passenger side. Both connections to the PCV and intake were solid, but when I checked the can, the hose fell off. The plastic fitting had cracked so I put the stock line back on (fortunately I brought it along) and all was good. They're replacing the fitting on the oil separator.

If you don't have any mods, you'll just have to take it in for a diagnostic unless you have a way to clear it. If you can clear it, try that first and see if it comes back. This engine seems to throw a lot of "false" codes (P030x, etc), so if you don't have a way to read and clear DTCs, I'd highly recommend getting one. All that said, it's possible you do have a bad O2 and/or short in the wiring.

 

Gary - Thanks for the detailed response. No mods. I saw a thread that spoke to DTC readers so I'll purchase soon.