Car has 140,000 miles on it and the “service engine soon” lite came on. Oil is changed regually at 3,000 miles; radiator is full. Has a code been tripped and how can I find out what it is. I guess I could take it to Auto Zone and read the codes.
Yes, take it to Autozone, have the codes read and then post the codes here - the actual code numbers, not what anyone says about them.
Also report whether or not the car has been doing anything unusual (like idling rough or stuttering or anything of that nature).
thanks Cig, I’ll get the codes read and then post them.
That CEL (check engine light)/SES (Service Engine Soon) is just a kid in class waving her hand trying to get you attention because she has the answer. You need to have the codes read. Some places will read them for FREE. Try Autozone or Advanced Auto Parts. Get the exact code (like P0123) not just their translation into English and post it back here.
Regarding warning lights:
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if the coolant temp light comes on, shut off the engine ASAP
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if the oil warning light comes on, shut off the engine ASAP
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if a FLASHING MIL/CEL comes on, shut off the engine ASAP
ASAP means driving to the berm of the highway right now and not waiting for the next exit.
But if the MIL/CEL is not flashing, then it’s not an urgent indicator.