The check engine light came on last night for the first time and immediately my speedometer began lurching up and down, my console lights began dimming and going back to normal and it sounded like my engine was revving lower than normal when I had it out of gear. Does anyone know what this might be?
I've had thousands of car problems in the past, and haven't encountered this one so I'm kinda clueless. I live in NYC, so if I don't have a good idea what the problem is when I take it to get repaired, I'll end up paying $4500 and probably get a new paint job to boot. I don't feel like being taken advantage of, so if anyone knows what mechanical issue might cause this to happen please let me know!
Thanks a billion....or, $4500 worth!
2006-08-28 05:44:39 · 4 answers · asked by snaggle_smurf 5 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
Because your engine check light came on its probably gone into a limp home mode.Your console lights could be an earthing problem,you need to get it to somone you can trust to get a code read out of your managment system.Need much more detail to be of any more help.Regards Mick UK.
2006-08-28 05:55:53 · answer #1 · answered by mick 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, I think you'll need a chip or module available most likely only from a new car dealer. Once they change it, everything should be ok. If you're really lucky, you will find a recall was issued by the manuf. and you can get a free repair. (I had this luck once and it felt like I had won a lotto). Search your car's make and model, terms such as electrical problem, etc. and get general info so you know buzz words. This helps in negotiating with car dealer,since as you know, it's all a big rip off game. There are sites that give a rough idea of what repairs should cost also!
I reread your post and a couple of comments below. It does sound like the alternator. Check your belts also, and search alternator and belts on line for general info.
2006-08-28 12:50:20 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Go get yourself a cheap volt meter and check to see if you have between 13.8-14.2 volts while she is running. Then check for at least 12.25 volts just after shutting the engine off. OR if the battery drops below 10 volts while the engine is being cranked the battery is most likely the culprit--for the first test it is most likely the alternator
2006-08-28 12:54:36 · answer #3 · answered by Gary Gearfreak 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would research it first, you can also save money by buying the parts yourself and just pay for the labor, go to an auto parts store and ask questions before you just shell out so much money.
2006-08-28 12:52:39 · answer #4 · answered by Mrs. Butler ♥2 B♥ 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋