Why might the engine service light not go off on a 1997 Pontiac Sunfire?

Answer 1

HeadlineSensors go off in that car all the time. Try unplugging your battery for 10 mins then hooking it back up. If that doesn't work, then try sanding down your gas cap. If THAT doesn't work then it could be a sensor on your exaust, so if all that doesn't work, take it to a diagnostic test center at your local garage and they will hook it up to the computer.

There are alot of reasons for that light to go one. Best bet is to take the car to auto zone, pep boys or some similar store and ask them to hook up the scan tool. They usually do it for free and can help you out with the parts to fix it. As a last resort if there isn't one near you a gm dealer can do it but they will prob. charge you.

This is not an uncommon problem with Sunfires or Cavaliers. The engine light is controled by several sensors. These sensors can be set off by just about anything, even just changing the oil. Before you take it anywhere to get the computer read, you may be able to save yourself some money by just unhooking the battery. If it is just a wonky sensor you should be able to unhook the battery and let the memory of the computer reset itself. The best way of doing this is unhooking the battery when you park your car for the night, and leave it unhooked for the entire night. The next morning, hook it back up and go about your business. If the light comes back on again, then you should take your car to a garage to have it checked out. If you haven't heard any noise or noticed any difference in the performance of your car, 9 out of 10 times, it's a wonky sensor.

This happened to me, it may sound silly but I was glad I didn't have to spend a dime!! Do this.....make sure your gas cap is closed all the way!! I actually read that tip in my Sunfire Manual.

your SES light will go off if you have a DTC that is pertaining to either emissions or engine performance issues there are many problems