1999 Ford Contour My check engine light comes on intermitte

Tiny
NBHENNING
  • MEMBER
  • 1999 FORD CONTOUR
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 117,000 MILES
For about 6 months (I know I should have brought it in by now) my check engine light has been coming on intermittently. Sometimes it will be on for two weeks and sometimes it will only be on for a short drive and the next time I start it up, the light is gone. I don't notice any difference in how the car runs when the light is on versus when its off. I am thinking it is a problem with the exhaust. Could this be true? What else could it be? Thanks!
Saturday, August 23rd, 2008 AT 6:25 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
MERLIN2021
  • MECHANIC
  • 17,250 POSTS
First thing you need to do is have the codes read, Autozone does it free, Post the results with the code number(s). Even if the service engine light is not on, there should be freeze frame data stored.
If it won't make it to Autozone, buy a cheap scanner, they can be had for 30-40 dollars, a good investment, since they cover all cars sold in the USA from 96 on.
If the light is blinking, it means possible damage to the converter. Service it right away!
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Saturday, August 23rd, 2008 AT 6:30 PM
Tiny
NBHENNING
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Thank you very much for your answer. I will bring it to autozone and the codes read.
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Saturday, August 23rd, 2008 AT 6:42 PM
Tiny
MERLIN2021
  • MECHANIC
  • 17,250 POSTS
I'll check back and see what we get for codes!
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Sunday, August 24th, 2008 AT 6:20 AM

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