Just bought the car… A 2005 Avalon limited and suddenly the VSC light and check engine light come on… Book says take to dealer… Hate doing that…Any suggestions
If you have a warranty you’d be crazy not to take it to the dealer. Quickly, and be sure you keep your copy of the shop order in case this becomes a persistant problem.
Yeah, you could have the codes downloaded elsewhere. But having that document seals their obligation.
That CEL (check engine light) 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 not just their translation into English and post it back here.
However if it is under warranty take it straight to the dealer. They are the ones who are responsible for fixing it and if someone else tries and fails, they may use that as an excuse to void the warranty. You don’t need and should not try to tell them what is wrong, just bring it in and say the light is on.