In Reply to: malfunction indicator lamp posted by ian on 07/06/03 at 12:23 AM:
The MIL could mean that a number of things are wrong with your car, and some of those could be serious, so don't ignore the light. You should get the computer codes read to determine why the light illuminated. You do not have to go to the dealership for this. I have heard that Auto Zone will read the codes for free.
Failure of the emission control systems is one of the possible problems that will cause the MIL to illuminate. Did you know that there is a federally mandated extended warranty on emission control devices in new cars? For some components it is considerably longer than the basic and drive train warranties that come with your vehicle. Check your owner's manual carefully or call your local dealership and ask what the terms are of the extended warranty on emission systems.