1997 Saturn SL2 "Check Engine Light"

THESIERRAS

MEMBER
1997 SATURN SL2
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
86,000 MILES

I took my 97 Saturn SL2 for its emissions test the other day. The readings were all acceptable, but the desk worker told me that the reason it failed was because the "CHECK ENGINE" light wouldn't come on when the ignition switch was engaged.

As far as I can tell, I've got a "SERVICE" light and a "SERVICE ENGINE SOON" light, but not a "CHECK ENGINE" light. Which light are the refering too? Should both the SERVICE and SERVICE ENGINE SOON light come on when the key is turned?

The SERVICE light always comes on for a few seconds when I first turn the key, along with most of the other dash indicators. The SERVICE ENGINE SOON light has been on and off since then, but I never catch what sequence/timeing makes it turn on, but it goes off after a couple seconds along with the other lights.

So, what should the lights be doing when I start the car?

Thanks

1 Reply

RASMATAZ

MECHANIC
75,992 POSTS

The SES light is also referred to Check engine light-If it doesn't come on when key at run it will flunk the test. Why? Someone could have taking the light bulb out because there's a problem in the engine managment system

They called it the bulb test during an emission testing-