• dual_sport_dork@lemmy.world
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    9 months ago

    Fortunately, the specific equipment of a basic OBD2 code reader capable of both helping you diagnose and resetting the code is very cheap these days.

    Very cheap.

    The majority of check engine lights that come “out of the blue” are emissions related failures, usually a leaky (or unscrewed) fuel cap, bad O2 sensor (~$40) or similar. Learning how to Google this stuff for yourself will save any vehicle owner hundreds of dollars instantly vs. spiraling into anxiety over having to pay a mechanic for what is, in most cases, something incredibly simple.

    • whoisearth@lemmy.ca
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      9 months ago

      And it will at the very least let you know if it’s serious. I had the check engine light it was that the emissions testing wasn’t working properly so I was at risk of potentially burning more fuel that normal. Whoopdie shit. Ran through some highway and city driving and it cleared itself.

      Of course now my airbag light is on FML. 2012 car I think the circuits are going.

    • LucyLastic@sh.itjust.works
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      9 months ago

      Yeah, I got a basic reader about 10 years ago, for what would be €20 in today’s money. It’s saved me hundreds.

      Only problem is motorbikes don’t have standard ODB2 ports so I have no idea why the light is on on my little 125 :-/