Can't find what dash light codes mean

Tiny
PATTON999
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 FORD TAURUS
  • 100,000 MILES
2002 Taurus SES
Car shuddered and died while driving out of the parking lot. The dash lights are showing the check engine and what looks like a gear with a? In it. What does this light mean and any idea of what is wrong.
Friday, December 23rd, 2011 AT 7:05 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
RASMATAZ
  • MECHANIC
  • 75,992 POSTS
Have the computer scanned for codes, if any present post them here
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Friday, December 23rd, 2011 AT 7:20 PM
Tiny
FIXITMR
  • MECHANIC
  • 9,990 POSTS
Sorta sounds like trans torque converter lockup and stall.
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Friday, December 23rd, 2011 AT 7:23 PM
Tiny
WRENCHTECH
  • MECHANIC
  • 20,757 POSTS
The "check engine" light is an indicator for a system that monitors many electronic functions in the system, also called the "malfunction indicator lamp" (MIL). It can come on for any of hundreds of different causes from any of the systems that the computer monitors. Some are very important and can lead to further component or engine damage and some are emissions related not as serious but still a problem and need to be repaired.

Your first step is to have the computer scanned to retrieve the trouble codes that were set when the check engine light came on. Those codes will give you specific information about what the computer saw and will get you pointed in the right direction to find your problem. With a 1996 or newer and some 95 cars and you have an AutoZone or Advanced auto parts in your area, they will read them for free. Once you have these code numbers, we can be a lot more specific about what your problem may be.
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Friday, December 23rd, 2011 AT 7:24 PM

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