Why does the yellow dashboard warning light that looks like an engine outline stay on?

Answer 1

AnswerThat is the check engine light.

This indicator is turned on when the vehicles engine computer senses a problem that it cannot resolve. For example, if one of the sensors goes bad (wears out) then it will either stop sending information and/or provide readings that are outside the range of what the computer considers normal. This indicator light can be lit because of something simple that is easily fixed for something more dramatic that could be expesive to fix. In any case, the problem needs to be fixed. To determine the Error Code that is causing the engine (check engine) light to be lit is done either through a diagnostic computer or some vehicles allow for simple code reading by shorting certain pins on the computer connector. Some auto part store will read your code for free with a small hand held unit. You can generally find out how the read the codes and what they stand for in a Chilton's or Hayne's repair manual for your vehicle at your local auto parts store. Generally, dealers will require a diagnostic fee to determine the code for you and this can cost anywhere from $50 to $100.