About two months ago, I replaced the spark plugs in my car. I did not go to a mechanic. I’ve since driven about 1,000 miles with no problem. The other day the “service engine soon” light came on and has not gone off. I checked the owner’s manual and it says that when this light comes on and is not flashing (which mine isn’t) that the diagnostic system has detected an emissions problem. Well, there is nothing wrong with my emissions but I don’t want to pay a mechanic just to turn the light off. Anyone know how to turn this light off?
It sounds like you are selling the car and want it off. But, you need a scan tool to turn it off. I would recommend disclosing that it has a check engine light coming on so that you dont mislead the buyer. If you cant reset it ,m then theres definately a problem that needs to be adressed. Either The PCM has a problem, or there is a EVAP sensor thats showing a constant vacuum or pressure thats failing when key is on. Perameters have to be vehicle driving between like 45-60 , with between 1/2 and 3/4 tank of fuel (these figures are not spot on but close its been a while) for it to run this test, so its not a test that runs often. The crieteria has to be right, so if its not clearing, what I am saying is that for some reason its flagging the code everytime you clear it or its just not clearing, which tells me its got to be one of the above mentioned. Unless you know how to dig into that problem, you do sound like theres a legitimate problem with this P0442.
The car has a sensor that is giving a reading not within workable parameters, why is it you think that you know better then your cars computer? Have the code pulled, if your that cheap, jeez, go to Auto Zone, they will read the code for free and tell you what is causing the light to come on. Then you can fix the problem, not that you actually would. I guess you just think if you can turn that light off, everything is just fine? Go ahead and disconnect the negative cable on the battery for about 5 or 10 minutes, this should reset your computer and turn off the light. When the light comes back on, then maybe you'll realize something is wrong and get it fixed, but I'm sure you won't. Have fun when your car breaks down because your too cheap to fix it.
An arm and a leg Your looking at atleast $800 if not more
Go to your local parts store like Advanced Auto and get them to clear out the code using a code-reader for free. Most likely when they use the code reader on your car, a code will pop up, telling you why the light is coming on. Once you know why the light is coming on, you can correct the problem - which if you dont beleive the code result - may in fact be the sensor acting up. Good luck.
