So, you have a check engine light on what do you next???
graphic courtesy of www.tirestoo.com
- FREAK OUT AND PANIC
- PLACE BLACK TAPE OVER IT
- IGNORE IT AND HOPE THE PROBLEM FIXES ITSELF
All kidding aside, the best thing to do is to hook up a code scanner and find out what has caused the light to come on. This is where the problem starts for most people. They assume it is a big problem and it will be very expensive to fix. Refer to the list above. Fortunately, I have some better options for my readers. So, let's get to it.
One great thing about technology is that after it has been available for a long time the price on it almost always drops considerably. And with that said, the price on code scanners has followed that trend. You can grab one on Ebay for next to nothing these days, so the average person should have no problem acquiring one for themselves which I would highly recommend. However, code scanners are limited in their abilities, they are not magic, and they will not by themselves fix the problem. They merely give you a starting point to begin diagnostics.
So, how hard is it to pull a code from your vehicle?
It's not.
All cars made in the last decade and beyond are required to use the same on board diagnostic system known as OBDII. And the connector is always located very close to the steering wheel, usually located near the hood release latch under your dash, it looks like this:
After it is plugged in, most scanners will start to scan for codes as soon as the key is turned to the power on position. The scanner will give you all the codes found in the computer and produce a code similar to this: [P0300] and a basic description of the code. If you do a Google search, a more detailed description can be found to help solve the problem.
Sometimes it is a simple as a loose gas cap, [P0440] in which case, tighten the cap, clear the code and you're good to go. This is best case scenario of course, and a code such as, [P0300] (random misfire) will require advanced diagnostics in order to correct the problem.
My main point is that sometimes the check engine light is nothing major and does not require a trip to the shop, saving you big bucks. Even if a trip to the shop is required, it is better to be armed with some knowledge of the issue before you go. It is just another way to protect yourself against those monster repair bills.
One great thing about technology is that after it has been available for a long time the price on it almost always drops considerably. And with that said, the price on code scanners has followed that trend. You can grab one on Ebay for next to nothing these days, so the average person should have no problem acquiring one for themselves which I would highly recommend. However, code scanners are limited in their abilities, they are not magic, and they will not by themselves fix the problem. They merely give you a starting point to begin diagnostics.
So, how hard is it to pull a code from your vehicle?
It's not.
All cars made in the last decade and beyond are required to use the same on board diagnostic system known as OBDII. And the connector is always located very close to the steering wheel, usually located near the hood release latch under your dash, it looks like this:
photo courtesy of www.nissanhelp.com
After it is plugged in, most scanners will start to scan for codes as soon as the key is turned to the power on position. The scanner will give you all the codes found in the computer and produce a code similar to this: [P0300] and a basic description of the code. If you do a Google search, a more detailed description can be found to help solve the problem.
Sometimes it is a simple as a loose gas cap, [P0440] in which case, tighten the cap, clear the code and you're good to go. This is best case scenario of course, and a code such as, [P0300] (random misfire) will require advanced diagnostics in order to correct the problem.
My main point is that sometimes the check engine light is nothing major and does not require a trip to the shop, saving you big bucks. Even if a trip to the shop is required, it is better to be armed with some knowledge of the issue before you go. It is just another way to protect yourself against those monster repair bills.
I have a '99 Dodge and so I should definitely invest in one of these scanners, but I have many friends whose cars are closed off from normal scanners. For instance, a Volkswagen is a tricky vehicle that will just not want to cooperate with you or give you the scanner. I've also heard about that Automatic car plugin that keeps you automatically updated about the overall health of your car! The future is a crazy place.
ReplyDeletelol. THat light has in an instance stopped my life and ruined my day. I hate seeing it, and once I do, it's hard to unsee it. Thanks for those codes. A few have shown up on my old car. THank God for diagnostic checks especially when they are free
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