You can't manually get the check engine light to give you the trouble codes on your vehicle. 1995 and later vehicles use the OBDII system and you must use a scanner tool to retrieve the codes. You can go to AutoZone or similar auto parts store that offers free scans to get the trouble codes retrieved. Or you can buy your own scan tool for about $70.
you check the system for trouble codes.
If you can not read codes with a scanner you have a wiring problem.
Decode how exactly? You can take your car to AutoZone and they check codes for free, then they can recommend or tell you what shops are in the area.
See link below for a complete list of trouble codes.
pretty much instantly. As soon as the codes are cleared the check engine light goes off and vice versa, unless there still is trouble. In this case the codes won't clear until the trouble is repaired.
Suggest you have it checked for trouble codes. The engine computer and airbag system should both have codes.
cant you need a scanner to check codes from 1996 and newer
A problem with the emission system. Need to have trouble codes checked.
Pending trouble codes: These are similar to normal trouble codes, but they are set after a single driving cycle, and usually before the check engine light is illuminated. Useful after repair work has been finished
The check engine light is reset with a scan tool after repairing the failure that caused the trouble codes.
After the Explorer is scanned for trouble codes to diagnose and then repair the malfunction , then the check engine light can be reset
A scan tool or code reader is required to read the trouble codes on a 2001 Chrysler Town and Country.