It's an indication that the computer has detected a problem. It means you're supposed to use a code scanner to find out what's wrong. It's a simple process, and code scanners are available at most auto parts retailers. You can usually borrow, rent or buy one just about anywhere that auto parts are sold. CSK auto, Auto Zone and other retailers usually lend code scanners as well as offering them for sale. You can also buy them from other auto parts retailers. The " check engine light" is by far one of the most misunderstood technological advances It is a warning light that is illuminated when there is a problem affecting the EMISSIONS of the vehicle.. Don't let it bother you as it is a good thing once you understand it. One point that was brought up a recent meeting of technicians was that the amount of hydrocarbons is greater when the gas cap is left off than when the engine is running. Hydrocarbons are part of pollution emitted as gasoline evaporates. Going a step farther, one facet of the emission system is the "Evaporative" portion. This is when the fumes from the gasoline are leaking from the system into the outside air. This is one part of the emission system that can trigger a check engine light. I would say a small percentage of the vehicles that have a check engine light are the result of a loose or inadequate gas cap. But understand that many scenarios are possible with the "check engine light" The vehicle's powertrain computer (note that some vehicles have multiple computers aside from the powertain computer) will run a series of self-tests. They will only run under certain criteria. And they are different from manufacturer to manufacturer. Some self-tests or
Be more specific! Warning light or check engine. If, warning light. What function?
There are several warning lights on a 1997 Grand Am. Some of the warning lights are the ABS system, oil lights, and the check engine light.
On a 1997 Mercury Mountaineer : The " CHECK ENGINE " warning light is just to the left of the battery voltage gauge
That's the ubiquitous 'check engine' light.
On a 1997 Ford Explorer : CHECK ENGINE is just to the left of the " C " on the engine coolant temperature gauge ( Helpfull )
On a 1997 Ford Explorer : The air bag readiness warning light is located in the bottom area of the tachometer . It is between and slightly above the " BRAKE " warning light and the left turn signal indicator . It looks like a person that is seated and has a oval shaped circle in front of them
Your check engine light will not come on in the auxilary (accesory) position. It comes on when the key is in the on (run) position to check the warning lights just before you start the vehicle.
No, the headlight bulb will just not turn on. The check engine light only comes on when there is a problem with the ENGINE, not the BULB.
Have vehicle scanned to determine the problem
If the air bag warning light is on in your gauge cluster, that is indicating a fault with your SRS system (airbag system) Get it checked out.
It has a " service engine soon " warning light that illuminates when the engines emission control system requires service and for a few seconds when the ignition key is in the run position before starting the engine . It is located directly below the " door ajar " warning light , just to the left of the fuel gauge
When working on a car, it is important to have a diagram on hand. A diagram for a 1997 Ford Explorer Engine can be found in the maintenance manual.