My "Service Engine Soon" light has been on and off for a couple weeks. I really don't know squat about cars and have always just taken them to get their oil changed and all that. What could be wrong?
Have the OBDII code checked for free at most major auto parts stores. Anything could be wrong. Obey the light then we can offer something.
First, you need to retrieve the fault codes stored in your car's computer. These codes will give you a good place to start and can often pinpoint a problem right away. Once you've got the codes you can retrieve the cleaning and test procedures online to check the conditions of the various different components and sensors. Never replace anything based solely on the findings of a code reader or scanner. First the component needs to be cleaned, then it needs to be tested to determine if it needs serviced or replaced.
(My service engine soon light) is very generic explanation. Go to autozone and have them run the codes then post a new question stating the Year, Make, Model and engine size and the code you recieved. There are literally 1000 to 1500 malfuctions that (could) cause that light come on. See the computer has a set of parameters for each set of sensors and what they call monitors, if anything appears to the computer that its not working like it should or that theres a part or sensor thats malfuntioning for example: TPS sensor, CMP sensor, CKPsensor, O2 sensors, Knock sensor, MAF sensor, EGR valve and flow malfuctions, EVAP leak and malfuntions, IAC valve, IAT sensor, Transmission issues, All the way down to a low coolant, oil, misfires and CAT effiency below threshold could cause that little light could come on.
There is a problem with the vehicles emission system. Go to Autozone or Advance Auto and they can tell what the error code is and direct you to someone that can fix it, if you do not want to do it yourself.
Take the vehicle to an auto parts store and get the codes read...write them down and repost!
