blkatz1

As a rather non-mechanically inclined person, I need advice. The "check engine" light came on yesterday while driving. I know the manual (yes, I actually pulled it out!) says it's probably am emissions issue. I tried the gas cap fix, but that didn't work. The car is now loud (as if there's a hole in the manifold or exhaust), idles rough and erratically (as a prior Porsche did, but that was a busted motor mount), and won't accelerate like it used to. Is it just a loose emissions/vacuum/whatever hose? Can I fix it myself, or do I keep the appointment at the dealer? Could the "check engine" light mean something more than just emissions? Is it a back-pressure problem with the muffler/exhaust that's causing the situation? A hole or leak in the exhaust manifold? Any suggestions would be most appreciated. I'm sure (or, at least I hope!) it's nothing expensive or terminal. Is it a common occurrence? Thanks.

xviper

Get the code. Nothing to do till then.

blkatz1

How do I get the code? On Jeep, it's turning ignition on and off three times. What do I need to do on the S?

xviper

You need an OBD II reader or go to the top of this forum and you'll see a sticky that'll tell you how to extract the blink codes.

w1ngman

Honestly? I believe you have provided your own best answer. This is your automobile, and a fine one at that. Not worth a guessing game if you're not inclined to dig. Consider keeping that appointment...if you have not yet gone

- Dave

blkatz1

Kept the appointment. Dealer said it was a bad ignition coil. Makes sense to me. Hopefully, I didn't fry the catalytic converter (what I smelled was probably the converter heating up as it worked overtime to handle the unburned fuel from the misfiring/non-firing cylinder). Questions: Does each cylinder have a coil, or is their just one? And, will the converter be O.K.? Only problem, no part available. They hope to have one today. Thanks for the help and encouragement, BTW.

Ek9

One coil per cylinder. Hard to say on the cat. When you get it fixed, if you get a convertor efficiency CEL after awhile then you probably killed the cat.

The car will tell you thanks to OBD2.