What does the check engine light mean in the 2004 ford escape?

The check engine light on the 2004 Ford Escape is a signal from the cars engine computer that something is wrong. If the light begins flashing, it indicates a more serious problem such as a mIS Fire that can quickly overheat the catalytic converter. Do not drive Your car if the light is flashing. The problem can be anything from a momentary hiccup, something like a loose gas cap or a change in humidity, to the failure of a major component like a bad catalytic converter. The list of things that can trigger the check engine light is pretty lengthy. The first thing to check is if the gas cap is loose or worn.