2005 Toyota Corolla Malfunction Indicator Lamp

The malfunction Indicator Lamp came on. My husband drove the car almost completly empty. Then a day later the light came on. It has come on before. Per manual e found the gas cap loose and that corrected it. But this time there is a kick coming from the rear of car when acclerating then istops. Drives normal otherwise.
The light has gone off and kick stopped a few times in last couple days. Taking it in to dealership but would like to know what to expect.
Thanks