Engine warning light.

[dirk989]

Driving home last night in very hot weather, my check engine light came on. I can find nothing wrong anywhere. I had just filled up with fuel and it was a very hot day. (1999 V8)

Before I delve into this one a little deeper, does anyone have any advice?

Thanks,

Dirk

[cnh1990]

It has been reported by the V8 folks on the forum that certain fuel brands will make this happen. What brand did you use.

Calvin

[Robert87hci]

Dirk,
Was the fuel cap on tight? The EVAP systems are so sensitive if the cap isn't tight enough it can trigger the light. You need to run a computer scan and see what the code (and or codes) are. Write them down, clear the codes, drive the car and see if the light comes on again. If it does, you will need to check codes again, and if a previous number appears, you will need to track down the cause.
Cheers,
Robert

[ErnestM]

If it doesn't reset itself in the next couple of starts (which they have been known to do) you can either:

1. Try a manual reset. Or, if you lack the ability...

2. Get it looked at. IMPORTANT

The 918 engine is nothing to be trifled with. Twice the cylinders means twice the risk. If you pop that thing, it's $ 35,000 to replace...

ErnestM

[kmaier]

Dirk, the V8 is picky about fuel. I have found Chevron Supreme to be about the best choice. Shell Super Unleaded always turns on the check engine light (always P0171 - system lean bank 1).

Simple rule, if the light comes on solid, it's not a major problem but would be advisable to have it checked. If the light is flashing, you have a serious problem and the engine should not be run and you most certainly need it checked. As Ernest noted, it may reset itself, but if it was caused by fuel, probably not.

Regards, KM
2000 V8

[dirk989]

Thanks for all of the info.
The mechanic will have the car later this week.
Until then, it's parked.

Dirk

[Khoa Bui]

Hi Dirk,
YOu may not need to have a mechanic checked it out. It is mostly like the type of gas you refueled last time. Like Kevin said, I found 76 and Chevron gasolines work ok, Shell does not. After you refuel with Chevron or 76, you would need to drive a few times before the light goes out.
Regards, Khoa

[Robert87hci]

Boy! Am I from old school! A check engine light will come on and go out with "soft" codes, meaning the light
will go out after a time with the computer recording how many times this code comes up. A "hard" code is when the computer sees this and keeps the light on... meaning permanent fault. Which must be looked into!
A "flashing" light is new to me... would love to know more about this "system"