"JD" <john.decicco@gmail.com> wrote in news:1158251581.893588.27270
@h48g2000cwc.googlegroups.com:

Take it to AutoZone and get the code read (for free!).

The MIL illumination means the engine's computer has detected a malfunction
of some kind in the engine controls. Your computer will have stored one or
more numeric codes (such as "P0300", "P0457" etc.). The codes(s) tell us
what the computer saw (or what it thinks it saw).

Report the code back here. Many of these are common problems and there are
a number of posters here who can give you some answers.

Autozone is usually very good for checking error codes so hopefully you
may be driving near one to stop. If not, call around to other auto parts
stores in your area. The one by me in Brookfield Ct even gives you the
printout. Three years ago my check engine light on my '99 Accord came on
and tightening & replacing the gas cap didn't solve it. It was a
catalytic converted low threshold error.

I was shocked when the Honda dealer told me it would be about $800 or
the cat alone plus a couple hours labor! It was one of the shortest cats
I had seen and in the best possible location to work on. I searched and
found an after-market cat from Summitracing.com for about $140. It took
40 minutes to replace it.

Last year the light came on again and it was an emissions vacuum
canister. I didn't have time to do it myself so it cost me $190 at the
dealer.

Good luck!