Malfunction Indicator Light (CEL)

[SunnySolara]

The Malfunction Indicator Light came on today just after I turned the heater on while driving. I made an appointment with Peace Arch Toyota for Friday to get it checked out. I have 1 more year left on the Extended Care Protection coverage. My 2001 Solara SLE only has 37000 miles on it. The service department says it will cost $47.50 for them to check the error code.
Shouldn't this be covered under the extended warranty?

[Sentinel]

You can get the code checked at many auto parts stores for free. $50 to run a code is B/S. You can buy a tool to scan them for less than $100.

http://www.etoolcart.com/index.asp?Page ... rodID=7207

You'll need a manual to tell you what the code is.

Actron makes a nicer tool for about $150 that tells you the code, what it means, and has a few more diagnostic tools, but this unit should do you fine, especially if the dealer wants that much to do 2 minutes of work.

[DDH1313]

I don't know if this is the case with chains out west however there are several auto parts stores (discount auto / auto zone / pep boys) around here that all offer a free scan if you ask.

[Jon11582]

I'll offer you a free scan if you drive to Jersey .

Anyone with an ODB-2 reader can scan the code. The tool itself costs about 100 bucks, so charging 50 to just do a scan is pretty rediculous.

First thing you do - Tighten your gas cap til it clicks. #1 cause of random CEL. Then go to Autozone and theyll pull the code for free. Write it down, and get them to clear after they read it. Go home and google the error code, and see what others have to say about it. You get it cleared because it might be one of those one-off errors that might never come back and you would have needed to get it cleared anyways.

After looking up the code and seeing what the issue is, drive until it comes back. If it comes back, have the code checked again. If its the same code, get it fixed with whatever fix is perscribed for the code, warrantee or otherwise.

[bronzemaxell]

i bought a fucntional new geniscan GS100 obd II scanner from ebay for $33, and $9 shipping, it works perfectly fine for any vehicle with obd ii compliant, i think with a few exception of a few european vw, audi, bmw.

it allows read multiple codes, pending codes, and erase codes. not a bad tool to invest.

[slamd02ranger]

The people at autozone will do it for you for free. Get a code number and someone can look it up.

[shocar4]

i have a brand new one (obd2) that i just got about a week ago and now i sold my solara! i paid 109 for it new....i'll let it for for 100 if you are interested! only used once!

[SunnySolara]

Thanks for all the help everyone. I asked The dealer how they could charge for diagnosing a defective part and they said they wouldn't if they replaced a part. Thanks for the offer of a free scan Jon. I think I'll pass on the 3000 mile drive to New Jersey for it. lol

I decided to risk it and went to the dealer. It was a disconnected hose on the air box. No charge. They replaced the air cleaner 5 months ago so I don't know how it came undone now.
I've got a 2000 Chilton repair manual which has the Toyota error codes. Hopefully they are the same for the 2001 Solara. I'll probably buy an inexpensive OBD2 reader after the warranty is up.

[Sentinel]

good idea: I think everybody should have some sort of a manual for their car, and seeing as OBD-II is standard for all cars these days, it is definately a good tool investment.