the dreaded CEL...what to do????

my '99 isuzu rodeo (V6. 3.2L) has 48k miles and the CEL came on yesterday. at the same time, a flashing "check trans" light appeared. i bought the car used a few months ago and i do not know its history.

i have no discernable problems with the car.

my local isuzu dealer indicated it would cost $100 to "try" and assess the problem.

is this something i can have an indy mechanic assess or is an isuzu dealer (w/ scary high prices and all) the only logical option??

- any thoughts on what my tranny issue could "likely" be?
- is there anything i can do to try and assess the issue?

of course, the owners manual and and haynes manual are of no help.

thanks

If you live in the US I think places like auto zone will read your trouble codes for free. That would atleast be a start and when you get the codes you could look into it from there.

is the diagnostic test and code deciphering that auto zone performs the samething that a delaer would do when they peform a diagnostic test?

what is auto zone's incentive to do these tests for free? do they also offer engine repair services?

thanks

Im not really sure why auto zone does it, I guess its just for customer service to promote them I guess but I dont think they offer repair services.

As far as I know the dealer would just hook up a code reader to the diagnostics port on your truck, if someone you know had the right reader you could easily do the same.

After Autozone for your codes; if you're not quite sure where to start yourself, I highly advise of an "Import" mechanic or dealership before seeking just any mechanic.

I learned that the hardway!