The maint req light was the first sign that trouble was brewing.
It wasn’t a big deal, really. It was just an indication that it was time for an oil change.
When I bought my little red Corolla 10 years earlier, I got lifetime oil changes for $100.00. Best deal ever. They no longer offer that service. The down side of the service is I have to schedule an appointment, so I started thinking about days when that would be convenient.
But then, on Saturday, I noticed something funny under the front drover’s side. The corner of the plastic “pan” that sits at the base of the car was hanging low. Weird. I pushed it up with my toes and it seemed to pop back into place. All seemed well until I was driving down the highway Sunday and heard a weird thumpy sound. I feared it had come loose again and was dragging on the ground a I sped along. I pulled over at the next exit and took a look. It had definitely come loose again, but was probably only vibrating, not dragging. I popped it back in place, dirtying my hands in the process, and drove home nervously, scheduling an appointment for Thursday once I arrived.
Monday, I drove to school, hoping to hear no thumping. I had checked the “pan” before leaving and it seemed secure. I was anxious driving, fearing I’d need to pull over. About half way to work, the third bit of trouble occurred: the check engine light came on. Really!
I checked the manual once I got to work. A yellow light, which I had, was better than a red light. It wasn’t urgent, but should be looked at. It could be as simple as a loose gas cap. Or something more serious.
My appointment is Thursday afternoon. I will drop the car off in the morning, and the dealership will drive me to work in their shuttle. I will worry all day, awaiting the call to tell me what is up. Please keep your fingers crossed for me.
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