Service engine soon (Federal only)
Your vehicle is equipped with a
computer that monitors the engine’s
emission control system. This
system is commonly known as the
On Board Diagnostics System (OBD
I). This OBD I system protects the
environment by ensuring that your vehicle continues to meet
government emission standards. The OBD I system also assists the
service technician in properly servicing your vehicle.
TheCheck Engine/Service Engine Soonindicator light illuminates
when the ignition is first turned to the ON position to check the bulb. If
it comes on after the engine is started, one of the engine’s emission
control systems may be malfunctioning. The light may illuminate without
a driveability concern being noted. The vehicle will usually be drivable
and will not require towing.
What you should do if the Check Engine/Service Engine Soon light
illuminates
Light turns on solid:
This means that the OBD I system has detected a malfunction.
Temporary malfunctions may cause yourService Engine Soonlight to
illuminate. Examples are:
1. The vehicle has run out of fuel. (The engine may misfire or run
poorly.)
2. Poor fuel quality or water in the fuel.
These and other temporary malfunctions can be corrected by filling the
fuel tank with good quality fuel. After three driving cycles without these
or any other temporary malfunctions present, theCheck Engine/Service
Engine Soonlight should turn off. (A driving cycle consists of a cold
engine startup followed by mixed city/highway driving.) No additional
vehicle service is required.
If theCheck Engine/Service Engine Soonlight remains on, have your
vehicle serviced at the first available opportunity.
Under engine misfire conditions, excessive exhaust temperatures
could damage the catalytic converter, the fuel system, interior
floor coverings or other vehicle components, possibly causing a fire.
SERVICE
ENGINE
SOON
Instrumentation
8
