2002 Kia Rio Check engine light

KIZZY777

MEMBER
2002 KIA RIO
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
14,000 MILES

I have a Kia Rio, my check engine light has been coming on and off for about two weeks. I at first thought it was due to the gas cap not being tight enough, however, that is not the case. I was told at my last oil change at Jiffy Lube, that my serpentine belt is worn. I have yet to smell burning rubber, or heard anything break in the engine. I drive quite a bit in the mornings taking my 1 year old to the sitter, and going to the opposite end of the city for work. I am very concerned, and am hoping you can help me. I am low on cash, as I returned to work on Tuesday from Maternity leave, and have yet to be paid.

1 Reply

WRENCHTECH

MECHANIC
20,758 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.