2001 Olds silhouette with 43,000 miles on it. We have it serviced regularly however, it is rarely driven as my hubby can no longer drive. Just recently, the service engine soon light came on, so I tried filling it with gas, repositioning the gas cap and driving it for a while. The light is still on, but there are no signs that anything is wrong. Anyone have any ideas other than the obvious “get it to the dealer”?
The light is a warning that something is going wrong, but it does not signal impending disaster. If the light stays on a trouble code has been stored in the car’s computer. Anyone with a code reader (mechanic, auto parts store, or you) can connect to the computer and see what the trouble code indicates.
It could be something minor, but it should be checked out. Ignoring the light will allow a developing problem to become worse, and more expensive to repair.
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.