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Malfunction Indicator Lamp, Readiness Codes
Malfunction Indicator Lamp
If this indicator comes on
while driving, it means one
of the engine's emissions control
systems may have a problem. Even
though you may feel no difference in
your vehicle's performance,
continued operation may cause
serious damage.
If you have recently refueled your
vehicle, the indicator could come on
because of a loose or missing fuel fill
cap. Tighten the cap until it clicks at
least once. Tightening the cap will
not turn the indicator off
immediately; it takes at least three
days of normal driving.
If the indicator remains on, or the
fuel cap was not loose or missing,
have your vehicle checked by a
dealer as soon as possible.
378
If you keep driving with the
malf unction indicator lamp on, you can
damage your vehicle's emissions
controls and engine. Those repairs may
not be covered by your vehicle's
warranties.
This indicator may also come on
along with the ''D'' indicator.
On Touring models
You will also see a ''CHECK
EMISSION SYSTEM'' message in
the multi-information display when
this indicator comes on.
Readiness Codes
Your vehicle has certain ''readiness
codes'' that are part of the on-board
diagnostics for the emissions
systems. In some states, part of the
emissions testing is to make sure
these codes are set. If they are not
set, the test cannot be completed.
If your vehicle battery has been
disconnected or gone dead, these
codes are erased. It takes at least
three days of driving under various
conditions to set the codes again.
To check if they are set, turn the
ignition switch to the ON (II)
position without starting the engine.
The malfunction indicator lamp will
come on for
20
seconds. If it then
goes off, the readiness codes are set.
If it blinks
5
times, the readiness
codes are not set. If possible, do not
take your vehicle for a state
emissions test until the readiness
codes are set. Refer to
State
Emissions Testing
for more
information (see page
401
).
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