My check engine light came on so I had the computer checked. No real problem so computer was reset. 2 days later my Escape started cutting out like the gas flow wasn't constant? ( I could smell a bit of a gas smell)and the check engine light started flashing. I was able to get it home but was running poorly and light is on constantly now. Any one know what the problem most likely is?

Then the Evap System leak wasn't the gas cap

Pays to just diagnose the system first & replace
parts when you find the real problem

Need professional tools for that

Scan Tool,Evap Smoke Machine,System Diagrams
& more before you start

Hello
When the service engine soon light (Also called the check engine light or engine management light) is turned on this is to alert you to the fact that Powertrain Control Module (computer) has detected a failure somewhere in the systems it controls you may not feel any difference in the way the engine runs, this can be the transmission or the engine or emission system, there are fault codes set in the modules memory for these faults. What needs to happen now is to have the powertrain control module scanned with a special tool called an OBD2 electronic engine control scanner or a OBD2 code reader. Once the code(s) are read then you must perform the diagnostics for each code and make the appropriate repairs based on the findings of the diagnosis that was performed, this is called doing "Pinpoint" testing.

Hello, have you tried to unhook the negative side of the battery for about 10 minutes and then go from there . It should reset the computer completely .

2.0 or 3.0 L engine ? DPFE sensor . What code is stored ?

This indicates a fuel vapor leak or lack of purge flow in the EVAP control system. It means a large leak has been detected. The (EVAP) emission control system prevents the escape of fuel vapors from a vehicle's fuel system. Fuel vapors are routed by hoses to a charcoal canister for storage. Later, when the engine is running a purge control valve opens allowing intake vacuum to siphon the fuel vapors into the engine.

Assuming you put on the proper gas cap and one of high quality, I would inspect the EVAP system for cuts/holes in tubes/hoses (you may hear a vacuum noise or smell fuel), repair if necessary.

If the gas cap was on pretty tight and it happens when you fuel up then it is possibly vapor locking.

Hi:
You should first get your car's codes scanned, to give yourself a clue as to what is tripping the check engine light. most auto parts stores will scan your car for free. Not many codes will make the light come and go, except for cylinder misfires. and often that is caused by a bad ignition module , but other components could be suspect too. The scan should help you narrow down what is wrong, so start there first!

these are common symptoms of fowled plugs, or dirty fuel filter, check these, if not, try a computer diagnosis.

On any car 1996 or newer after a repair is made the memory in the computer has to be cleared the light will not go away by itself. The proper way to clear this is with a scanner or code reader but if you dont have any other way unhooking the battery will force the computer to loose all its memory and start all over and the light will go away. If the light returns after a few days you still have a problim.

Yah code 1684, it just tells you that battery/computer has been disconnected within last 50 starts. If it doesn't drive you nuts, give it some time, you'll be suprised how quick 50 starts will go by & light should go out