What would you do? My car's engine light just came on two days ago. I brought it to a car store...

Jenny1234 · 51-55, F

I usually drive my car until the engine light goes off again. But that’s probably not good advice to give you so I’ll stop now

OverTheHill · 56-60, M

@Coralmist An honest mechanic is worth their weight in gold. So many look to take advantage,

You know how your vehicle runs, if there are issues that you think are getting worse get it checked out. If you address it now, it can save you more money than if your car breaks down.

Threepio

I would go to a reputable auto parts store (like an Auto Zone). Almost all reputable stores have an error code reading device (ODB scanner).

Have them "read" the codes, then match the code to the error chart for that vehicle. Typically, they can then print out recommended "fixes" for that error code. (At least that's the way it works here....).

Sometimes the error code is as simple as a loose gas cap.... Often, what can happen is you can ask them to just clear the code and then you can drive around until the check engine light comes on again. Then recheck the codes to verify the problem (same code).... Then fix as appropriate.

tallpowerhouseblonde · 36-40, F

Get that code read.The garage should be able to tell you what is wrong from the code.It can be something simple too like a spark plug needs replacing.Beware of shady garages.

stound

I'd try the air filter fix first - buy one yourself, even an online order, if you need. or go back to the place that did the read for you if they sell them there. if you don't know how to change out the filter, get a youtube video that shows that, have some gear ready to be able to clean out the rest of the air intake.
I'd say waiting to have things checked is not the best plan - repairs tend to get more costly with time and running a car when it's got something moderate wrong with it quickly escalates to a bigger, more expensive problem.

Guardian · 56-60, M

I would first find a reputable trustworthy mechanic. Then go with their recommendation if this can wait or not.

Threepio

@Coralmist 1st...change the air filter if you think it is dirty or you can't remember the last time you had it changed.

Then I would suggest that your next step be to look at the intake manifold and feel around it to find which small rubber hose(s) terminate somewhere on the intake manifold or the parts that are attached to the intake manifold. You are looking for a vacuum leak (so the engine needs to be running). These small rubber hoses dry out after years of being exposed to the heat that builds up in the engine compartment.

Ontheroad · M

I haven't a clue as to what it might be... there are any number of things so no guesses from me.

What I will say is that no matter what it is, it won't get less expensive to fix if you wait, but it may get a lot more expensive if you do wait.

Find a local shop (not a national or car dealership shop), one you can check on Nexttdoor or a local Facebook group, and have it looked at. I use one I found through references on Nextdoor and they are honest and never upsell.

Sapio · 51-55, M

Sound like the intake gasket needs replacing. I had a 98 Chev pick up that did the same thing and that's what it was. But you should also get the error code read for the check engine light being on. It'll probably help put your mind at ease knowing why it's on.

Justafantasy · M

What's the noise? If it's knocking stop right now and check the oil.

What's the car? Something you can trade in for something newer or something that's value changes with how much gas is in it?

JustDJ76 · 46-50, M

Start with the air filter but that’s probably not it. It’s never a cheap fix for me. Other than that, I don’t know. Some dealerships have financing. It’s still a monthly payment but better than forking it over all at once.

OverTheHill · 56-60, M

There is a good retired mechanic who I watch on YouTube call3d Scotty Kilmer. He gives good advice,. Here is a video about cleaning intake valves.

[media=https://youtu.be/cP7D-5iQcNo]

Samek · 36-40, M

Air filter is cheap and easy to replace and probably needs replacing anyways so I'd go ahead and do that. Otherwise, I'd do a wait and see since money is tight.

MrBrownstone · 46-50, M

I drove my truck with the engine light on for 2 years. Mostly a scare tactic.

HoraceGreenley · 56-60, M

It's always less expensive to fix something immediately than to wait. You're playing with fire 🔥

TheOneyouwerewarnedabout · 46-50, MVIP

Put a sticker over the check engine light

Banksy83 · 36-40, M

Bite the bullet and get a new one ,dont be sentimental over a car. I hope you didnt give it a name Michelle

iamonfire696 · 41-45, F

I would get the code read and go from there. The check engine light can mean a lot of things and some are minor and others are bad but you should get it checked.