Car troubles

[spotty_dog]

Oh, joy. So, I finally got my car (2009 Kia) in to the dealership a week ago for a year-old recall. Turned out that the affected part needed replacement, but they didn't have it in stock, so I have to go back later this week -- it's a 1-hour drive each way, and a 2-hour wait, so that's pretty spiffy.

But because nothing's ever simple, today I started my car and it sounded kind of squealy and the check engine light came on.

Would you make the hour drive with the check engine light on, and have the dealership check the car out on Thursday? Or would you call the local auto repair place that's within walking distance and have them at least do a diagnostic before then?

[MrsC]

Since it's out of warranty, I would go with the local place and at least see if it's safe to drive that far.

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[SoonerTexan]

You can even go to an Autozone or an O'Reilly (do you have one on the island?) and they will run the diagnostics for the code the check engine spit out. They can usually tell you if it is a "okay to drive but get it looked at" or "you better not go anywhere but an auto shop after this"

BTDT...too many times

[LynnAlicia]

I’ve heard only when the check engine light flashes does it mean “attention NOW” Do you have AAA? They tow a certain amount of miles.


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[SoonerTexan]

I’ve heard only when the check engine light flashes does it mean “attention NOW”

It can mean anything on the spectrum of "your transmission might be failing" to "you need a new gas cap"

[spotty_dog]

In fact, I seem to remember we had the gas cap problem shortly after we got the car!

ST, we do have a few auto parts stores in the "big city" (20k people, LOL) but that's still a 20 minute drive. [MENTION=4811]LynnAlicia[/MENTION], I did think about AAA as well. I haven't had to use it for a decade-plus, but this is why we keep up our membership!

I think I'll have the local repair shop at least run the diagnostic code ASAP, and then go from there. Yeesh.

[civilspouse]

I've been told if it's flashing you should not drive the car. If it's solid you just need to get it checked soon. Agree going to the local place to have them check the code would probably be best. They would most likely be cheaper than the dealership.


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[ballibeg]

Spot the irony...a bloke suggesting you should look at the manual!

[spotty_dog]

Spot the irony...a bloke suggesting you should look at the manual!

Don't worry, I did! It gives conflicting information. It says that the light has to do with emission controls...then it says, CAUTION, prolonged driving with the light on could affect fuel economy and "driveability"...then it says, CAUTION, driving with the light on could cause catalytic converter damage and loss of engine power. So...I guess I don't know what's the worst case scenario here?

Although it would be somewhat convenient just to leave the car parked until Thursday, then drive it the 40 miles to the appointment we already have at the dealer, I think I'll be able to sleep easier if I can get it in sooner at the place a mile away. Plus I have a feeling we might need to have a relationship with a local mechanic for the next few years until we trade this sucker in...

[ballibeg]

Of course you'd have read the manual.. 😂😂

[Thirteen]

Keep us updated, and as always, logic and safety.

(My baby had a big repair a few weeks ago when the torque converter went bad and it died at a stoplight. They covered it, and Bullet is running much better now, but I was very afraid it would happen on the freeway with the kids in the car)


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[spotty_dog]

And the verdict is...it was a "random misfire." Mechanic found no evidence of bad spark plugs, and says it's nothing to worry about. He did notice a little engine sluggishness and suggested a fuel injector clean-out, which was super cheap, and my car is now running WAY better than it has in a year. So...phew!! Total bill was $130 including tax.

[SoonerTexan]

Local mechanics are the best. We gave ours so much business with the van that I got a Christmas card from them this year

[spotty_dog]

I researched local recommendations for mechanics last year, and everyone I heard from in my town talked about their faves in the neighboring city. Because of that, I worried that this local guy would be overpriced, or try to upsell me for being a woman. I was really happy with the service, and so relieved to have someone to call as my minivan gets older!

[LynnAlicia]

Awesome news!!!


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