Our check engine light has been on for about two years. No one can figure out what is wrong with it. The O2 sensor has been replaced and the EBR (?) valve. Still the check engine light goes back on within 5 miles of leaving the mechanic. It’s a 97 Toyota RAV4. Anyone else have this problem?
Lots of people have that kind of problem, but its not “a” problem, and its normally b/c they haven’t found a good mechanic.
If the check engine light comes on it means that the computer has detected an issue in one of the systems, and it has stored a “diagnostic trouble code” (DTC) in its memory. There are hundreds of these. If you want anyone here to try to help you out then you need to get and report the DTCs. The DTCs format is “Pxxxx” (e.g. P1234). You might have them recorded on invoices from past service attempts. Many auto parts stores will also scan them for free.
Get the codes, write down the exact code(s) and post. Do not bother to post any “text” that anyone gives you - just the Pxxxx number.
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 (like P0123) not just their translation into English and post it back here.
Ignoring the light, even if you know right now the light is caused by something you don’t believe is important, remember that once the light is on, it has no way of telling you that a new and maybe far more serious has been detected.
The CEL is designed primarily to monitor the cars emissions control systems. If you have no drivability problems and the light is not blinking, it’s usually safe to drive the car…
If you post the codes stored in your cars computer, we will tell you what they mean…Or you can look them up yourself. Just Google P-0000 or “OBD-2 codes” to see what the codes mean…