the engine light - but seems no problems

[Victoria]

I will apoligize up front if this isn't the place to post this. I'm new here.

I just got my car - used - 30K miles. I've put 4K miles on it in the 1 and 1/2 months I've had her. Had to make two quick trips up to Virginia and went up the mountains-scenic way. She wasn't impressive dragging up those hills. Now that I'm back the check engine light has come on, but no noise, seems to drive just fine. The book says "drive a couple of your normal drive cycles and then if it doesn't stop, have it checked out" I'm very nervous about driving around with the engine light on. But on the other hand my bank account isn't impressed with the idea of going to the shop. So I haven't done it right away.

Does anyone have any suggestions as to pt behaviour? I appreciate any experiences shared. This is the first car I've ever owned that I am going to learn about and take care of.

Thank you !!

[quicksilverdon]

Go to an Auto Zone or Advance Auto - they will pull up the error code for free, and then you can decide whether to worry or not.

[Jimbo]

Check your gas cap.Take it off and put it back on.
Check for codes.Turn switch on and off three times
on the third time leave on.Code should show in the odomiter

[AZ_IceMan]

Yup, plus check if your gas cap is on tight. Most of the time, thats the problem. [:I]

[Victoria]

Well, THANK YOU everyone!!!

Do you take paypal??

I think it was perhaps bad gas, (did I just say that?) Or the gas cap. The light went off and my nerves calmed down. I've only made two payments on her, don't want to visit the shop just yet!

Again I truly appreciate your help.

[quicksilverdon]

The code should still be stored - If you get a chance, stop at an auto parts store and ask if they pull up error codes for free - then you'll know for sure what it was.