97 Lumina- check eng light & gas tank

[fussman]

Our 97 Lumina is due for plates and my check engine light is on constantly. Daughter had serviced...was off for a few days...don't know what she had done exactly.

Also, we don't fill gas tank all of the way or you smell a strong gas odor.

So...it is possible that gas tank and check engine light are related?

Anyone know an easy fix for gas tank? Hate to put a bunch of money in a ten year old car.

On the engine light..someone suggested unplugging battery to reset? Does this work? Can we past Echeck to get our license plates.

Thanks for any input.

Laura

[fussman]

forgot to mention...we did run the codes at Autozone last night without any luck...nothing came up.

[northwichita]

Originally Posted by fussman

forgot to mention...we did run the codes at Autozone last night without any luck...nothing came up.

The codes disappear after multiple on off of ignition, they should have been able to still read them at Autozone..... A loose gas cap will set a code, make the engine light go on, I drive a lot of dusty roads, and just had to clean the cap the the filler part to stop it. Suggest rechecking at autozone the next time you see the check engine light.

[cf1]

Originally Posted by northwichita

The codes disappear after multiple on off of ignition, they should have been able to still read them at Autozone..... A loose gas cap will set a code, make the engine light go on, I drive a lot of dusty roads, and just had to clean the cap the the filler part to stop it. Suggest rechecking at autozone the next time you see the check engine light.

change the air filter, unhook the battery,the light will go out get your car tested..before it comes on again...

[Blue Bowtie]

That might work unless the testing station performs an OBD-II test/readiness check (which many DO).

A more capable scanner should be able to read history codes and pending codes. That should give some indication of whatever problem caused the MIL to turn on.

Since fuel odor is present after filling, but (apparently) there is no sign of liquid leaking, I'd suggest checking the evaporative emission system hoses, carbon canister, and purge/vent system. Most of that is all right at/near the tank, and the hoses connect to the engine.

Just make sure all the hoses are connected and not damage. You might want to look at the filler neck hose/connection as well. If the tank will not hold a slight vacuum, the MIL will light. Of course, a key part of the system is the fuel cap seal and relief valve, so checking the cap is also a good idea.