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2004 Ford Escape P2197 Fault: Wet Spark Plugs, Gas in Oil, and Failed Catalyst Converters

Model: 2004 Ford Escape Fault Code: P2197 Posted: 2014-03-31 22:37

I own a 2004 Ford Escape with a persistent issue involving two spark plugs that are dripping fuel. The vehicle is showing fault code P2197, and I've noticed gas in my engine oil. Additionally, all three catalytic converters have already been replaced. I'm seeking help to identify the root cause of this problem. While two spark plugs show visible fuel leakage, the other four spark plugs smell like gasoline but are not wet. This inconsistency is confusing and I'd appreciate expert insight into what might be causing these symptoms.

Related fault codes
P2197
Comments (3)
Anonymous 2014-04-01 06:11

P2197 indicates an upstream oxygen sensor (Bank 2, Sensor 1) that is stuck in a lean condition. The engine control module (PCM) interprets this signal as needing more fuel, which causes the spark plugs to become wet with gasoline. Replacing this O2 sensor is recommended—use a dealer-grade sensor rather than aftermarket parts for reliability and compatibility.

Anonymous 2014-04-01 08:08

Mohawkmtrs wrote: P2197 indicates an upstream oxygen sensor (Bank 2, Sensor 1) that is stuck in a lean condition. The engine control module (PCM) interprets this signal as needing more fuel, which causes the spark plugs to become wet with gasoline. Replacing this O2 sensor is recommended—use a dealer-grade sensor rather than aftermarket parts for reliability and compatibility. Why are only two spark plugs wet while the others smell of gas but remain dry?

Anonymous 2014-04-02 06:53

The 2004 Ford Escape is equipped with a V6 engine, featuring three cylinders per bank. The two wet spark plugs are likely located on Bank 2 (the driver's side), as the user did not specify which cylinder group was affected. Only one plug on Bank 2 shows fuel dripping, and none of the plugs on Bank 1 exhibit wetness. This suggests that only Bank 2 is running rich due to a faulty oxygen sensor reading.