my 02 ranger has a check engine light that came on a couple days ago. i had a friend with a code scanner check it, it came up as excess exhaust gas reciculation, any ideas?

EGR valve??? :eek:

check the EGR valve, first apply light vacum to the top if there is vaccum its good, if not replace it $35 at the parts store. also there is a flat silver or black box behind it with 2 hoses going into it, its the EGR selenoid pull that off and check the inside of it if you see a lot of build up, and rust in it replace it, another $35-$50 but the replacement part is plastic and problem will disappear.

The EGR must be a problem area for these trucks. My dads is setting a code on his 99, my 98 threw the same code earlier this week and I only have 61,000 miles on the truck.

bluemq1,

We just experienced a similar problem with a 1996 Ranger. We replaced the EGR valve but the light came back on. I took it to my dealer who put it on the computer & said it was the DPFE sensor. We replaced the sensor & the "check engine" light has gone off. The EGR & DPFE are very, very easy to change so save yourself some money & do it yourself!!!

Agree DPFE sensor might be at fault, and it can get crudded up easily. Check to see if the hoses and sensor are dirty if so try cleaning them. I'd check the EGR as will just remove it and see that it closes all the way, with a vac tester check to see that it opens, then reinstall if good. Changing both might not be nessassary.