Check Engine Lights Fixed?

Question

My check engine light in my Hyundai went on today, and upon investigation by my stepfather, he told me that the lights are fixed to go off every 36,000 miles. Well, my car is a little over 36,000 miles and irregardless, I'm bringing it to the dealership to get checked out. The oil and transmission fluids are fine, the filters are new, the battery is new.
So what's the deal? Is it truly fixed or does it show that something really is wrong with the car?

Should probably mention, I know it can't be the gas cap because I filled up the car 5 days ago. So it's too soon. But thank you so far to everyone who's answered!

Answer 1

this light works as a reminder light to remind you it needs serviced,,when they service it,,they can clear it off,,and also check it to see if has anything else wrong with it,,and if it does they can make you aware of it,,and you can either have them repair it,,or someone else,,but it is supposed to come on ,,every 36 thousand miles,,good luck with it,,i hope this help,s.

Answer 2

If the light says "Check Engine" or if it looks like a little engine and is amber, it is NOT a maintenance light.
Your little car is controlled by a computer, referred to as a PCM.
The PCM cannot speak to you, and there is no available digital print-out on your instrument cluster. This light is your car's only means of communication with you.
As you start and drive your car, the PCM runs a series of self tests. When it runs a test, and the test fails, It must be addressed for a variety of reasons. But the LAW requires that the light be used ONLY for system or circuit failures that will cause a rise in emissions.
There could be a problem with an engine component or sensor, or the fuel cap could have been left a bit loose.
The only way to find out what it is is with a Code Reader or a scan-tool.
Your dad can buy one at a discount auto parts store for about $100.00 to $150.00, and will read the codes on ALL cars manufactured from 1996 - 2006.
they will identify the circuit with a code, which will have to be interpreted, but all of that information can be gathered at the library or on-line here---->
http://www.obdii.com/

Good Luck

Answer 3

Check engine lights are not set to come on at specified intervals. The light comes on because to computer has detected a problem which sets a code in the computer. Whatever set the code will need to be repaired. Do not take your car to Autozone or any other parts store to have it checked. Yes, they will be able to get the code(s) out of the computer but understanding them is something else. Too many times I've seen people replace parts just because it was named as part of the code. Example - Oxygen Sensor Lean does not mean the the oxygen sensor is bad. It means that the sensor is detecting a lean condition. In this case, you have to find out what is causing the lean condition. Take the car to reputible repair shop.

Answer 4

Sometimes cars check engine lights come on if you have a faulty sensor. None of which will really hurt your car. Like usually it is the O2 sensor gone bad. If the light comes on and goes off frequently that is probably what it is, if it is staying on, then they need to do something with the codes (diagnostic thing..it blinks to check different things) to see what is wrong with it (if anything) that should make the light go out even if nothing is wrong.

Answer 5

Here in Kentucky, Autozone will check your car for free. There should be an auto supply store in your area who can do this. The check engine light comes on when it SENSES a problem. So have it checked.

Answer 6

Greatest invention ever made for the car dealer. The check engine light usually signifies a bad O2 sensor (oxygen sensor)

Answer 7

Yeah- dad is right- it is because of the O2 sensor. It has to do with emissions, so don't go until you get your car checked, but besides that it will be fine.

BTW: Irregardless is not a word.

The origin of irregardless is not known for certain, but the consensus among references is that it is a portmanteau of irrespective and regardless, both of which are commonly accepted standard English words. By blending these words, an illogical word is created. "Since the prefix ir- means 'not' (as it does with irrespective), and the suffix -less means 'without,' irregardless is a double negative."[1]. (Cf. inflammable, flammable.)

Just so ya know- not trying to be mean.

Answer 8

Sometimes that is how the oil life system is set up to tell you that the oil needs changing. Manufacturers do not set the service engine soon light to illuminate unless it is set up for maintinance intervalls.

Answer 9

Some times when your check engine lite comes on, all you have to do it take loose the "+" red one from your battery and put it back on, it will reset the lite.

Answer 10

its a service light to remind u to take it in for a check up ..