Thank goodness modern cars have warning lights. I no longer have to remember when to schedule my next oil change – my light will tell me. I felt really on top of things because as soon as the light appeared, I scheduled an oil change for the day and time I wanted. I paid $100 for “Lifetime Oil Change” service when I bought my car in 2006. The dealership doesn’t offer that anymore.
Yesterday, when I started my car, though, a new light appeared.
Crap!
Just last year it had come on and I needed a new catalytic converter. Ka-ching!
When I got to school, I scheduled an appointment for this morning. Drop off at 7. Shuttle to school. 7:45 appointment. I might even know the verdict before noon!
In the meantime, I searched online and saw this handy advice:
Possibly the silliest reason that your check engine light is on, a loose, damaged or missing gas cap may cause your check engine light to come on. The gas cap seals the fuel system, maintains pressure and will reduce emissions. A faulty gas cap will increase harmful emissions and can negatively impact efficiency if not replaced.
Before starting the car after school yesterday, I tightened the gas cap, hoping I could cancel the Tuesday morning appointment. Nothing changed, so I will follow through with Plan A.
I am hoping it is something small but fearing I will be shopping for a new car next week during Spring Break.
booksandbassets 
Worst feeling! hope it is just something small.
Oh no! That means you’ll love the lifetime oil changes, which is perhaps the worst news.
Ugh. Car lights stress me out more than anything! I think it’s because I’m utterly useless when it comes to knowing things about the way they operate. Fingers crossed it’s something small! Sending you all of the positive vibes!
i Always get worried when a light comes on it the car. Not being mechanical in any way I immediately call the garage and hope for the best. Hoping it is nothing major for you.
Hope it’s an easy fix, but with a car that old, the odds are it isn’t easy. What a deal, you got oil changes for all those years for only $100.
It’s good to listen when your car tries to tell you something. Hope it’s something small and easily fixed!
Sorry to hear it! My vehicle is older, but it runs well, and I am grateful. Those lights come on for every little (and big) thing. I once drove my old car for a year and a half because it was some sensor gone bad that really didn’t affect the operation of the vehicle. I’m lucky to have a mechanic that is honest like that.
Best wishes for easy answers, whatever they may be!