2005 Chevy Malibu check engine light

2005 CHEVROLET MALIBU

74,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC

PAGS411

MEMBER
2 POSTS
FOLLOW

My check engine light has been on for about 5 or 6 weeks now. I took the gas cap off and put it back on several times to see if that was the problem. I waited 3 days after each gas cap removal to allow it to reset. It stayed on. A friend told me it could be a sensor of some sort. If it is, what kind of cost am I looking at to have it repaired. The car seems to be running okay, except for the gas mileage, it's down a little. I'm retired and on a fixed income, which, unfortunately for me is very low. I need to know how long I'll have to save to pay for the repair.

Nov 8, 2009 at 9:59 AM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
110,190 POSTS

Okay, lets determine what is wrong. I need you to take the vehicle to a nationally recognized parts store and have them scan the computer for codes. Most stores (like Auto Zone, Advance...) will do it for free, so there is no money out of pocket. Ask them to reset the light when they finish to see if it comes back on. Once you do that, let me know what codes you get so I can direct you. And yes, it could be one of many sensors or a bad gas cap.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

Nov 12, 2009 at 6:05 PM

PAGS411

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Hi Joe, I didn't know that Advance Auto Parts would scan my computer and tell me what was wrong. I took it to a local repair shop and hoped they knew what they were doing. They scanned the computer and told me that it is the oxygen sensor part #13455 (Advance Auto Parts). So I had it put in. The check engine light is off now. I guess we will see what happens now. Thanks for getting back to me.
pags

Nov 13, 2009 at 10:23 AM

Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.