I have a 1993 Dodge Intrept with 95000 miles on it. It runs well except it periodically losses power, checkengine light comes on, and runs very rough. I stop the car shut it off and start it again and it runs fine again. This happens at random usually after driving 20 miles or so, but it could go much longer. I recently drove to Indiana, all the way there it ran fine on the way back it did this 5 times. Before taking it for repairs I,d like to have some idea of whats causing this. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you, John
The “check engine” light is your car’s way of telling you something is wrong. It tries to tell you WHAT is wrong in the form of stored codes in the computer. Get those codes read to find out what it’s trying to tell you.
You can usually get these codes read at a local chain auto parts store.
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.
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.