My wife drives a 2001 spider [about 51000 miles] the service engine light just came on yesterday. How serious is this light? What are the most probable causes? How can I extract the malfunction codes. Thanks for the help...[>:]

 

take it in... It could be something little like a gas cap not tightened all the way... Or it could be something else going that could leave you with a car that won't run in another couple of months...

Just take it to a mechanic and ask them to hook it up and see what codes it gives them... If its nothing serious then you won't have to worry about it... But atleast check to see what codes it is giving.

 

As already mentioned, there are so many things that can trigger the check engine light. You're better off having it inspected than to have a bunch of guys on the internet take wild guess's as to what it could be. On top of that, an 01@51K still has some warranty left in it- it might be something warrantable. There are a few autoparts stores that will read the code for you for free. Just be sure to write down the EXACT code and take their diagnostic advice with a grain of salt as many of them don't have a clue as far as drivability diagnosis. If your lucky, it could be an EVAP code due to a loose gas cap. Good Luck!

Joel, CA
Diamond Star Certified Technician