What if your check engine light comes on in your 2002 Toyota solara?

Answer 1

When the "Check Engine" light comes on it means the car's computer has detected a problem with one or more sensors. It's very simple to find out what the problem is, sometimes less simple to actually locate the sensor. Just drive the car to a nearby auto supply store that will loan you a code reader. That would include almost all Autozone and many other stores. Once you have the reader look under your dashboard to the right of the steering column. You'll find a plug that the reader will connect to. Once connected follow the instructions on the reader. It usually involves turning on your key and pushing a "read code" button on the device. After a few seconds the screen will either tell you exactly what the problem is or (inexpensive models) will give you a code number that you'll have to look up. Unless you're very familiar with the sensors your engine uses you might need a service manual to locate the actual troublemaker which could be a knock sensor, an 02 sensor, clogged catalytic converter or any of a couple of dozen other things. After you've fixed the problem you'll want to plug the reader into the port again and push the "clear codes" button. Clearing the light before fixing the problem just means the light will come on again in a few miles. Cheers