My service engine light comes on for a couple weeks at a time and goes off for a couple of weeks at a time. I had the code read at auto zone ant it said a large emission leak (p 4045 i believe) so i replaced the gas cap to no avail. I do not understand why the light comes on and off so regularly if there is a problem. I would think it would just stay on. I just had an oxygen sensor replace less than a year ago for the same light for about $800. Do I really need to get this looked at or is there anything I can check myself?
well what im wondering is how big of a light you need to know when you have a problem with motor really you waiting on bells to ring or another sign come on and if you payed 800 bucks for a oxygen sensor to be replace they took your money and had a big party sorry but really take your car to a shop.. yes it needs to be look at sure you could fix what it is but you got to know what to fix first couldbe one of about a hundred things to make a light come would cost you a lot guessing at it til you found it here is a few links of what it mean be and how one fixes it but really be better if you just had it done but for sure dont go to th eplace that charged you 800 buck for a oxygen sensor call autozone ask them how much one cost you will see what i mean
When the check engine light turns on that is a emissions related condition. OBD-2 on-board diagnostic second generation in cars 1996 and newer. Flashing Engine light indicates a serious emissions issue that may cause cat converter or other emissions system failures. A leaking gas cap or a engine misfire can cause he light too. Next time the light turns on don't wait have the code checked write down the numbers and then ask if you can write down the freeze frame data too. Good Luck
The light comes on to warn you when any of the systems the computer monitors returns a signal outside the parameters it expects to see. If I might suggest, don't go to Auto Zone to have your computer scanned, the only reason they do it is to sell parts, and the scan is only as good as the kid currently on the counter. Also, there is no P4045 error code. It stops in the 2xxx range. P0442 Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (small leak) would be the only code where you would look to changing out your fuel cap. And an O? sensor wouldn't approach a cost of $800 usually. Go find a decent mechanic, and have him scan your system as to the trouble code in memory, then go from there.
