1997 Buick Lesabre Check Engine Light on

[kaspyfan]

Hi

I just purchased a 1997 buick lesabre with 103,000 miles on it. I drove it a hundred miles and stoped to get something eat, while waiting at the drive in I began pumping the breaks and noticed the sound of air while pumping the breaks. Suddenly the check engine light came on. The Car drives fine no overheating or anything, so what's the problem? How do I get the light to go off, should I get paronoid that I got a lemon??

[highlandlake]

Hello Kaspy,

Sounds like the two problems might be unrelated. You could be overdue for brake service (lines bled) which isn't connected to the check engine light. The CEL might mean that you need an oxygen sensor or EGR valve. At 100 + thousand miles all these things are about ready to be serviced.
Good luck.
Highland

[highlandlake]

[quote=highlandlake]Hello Kaspy,

I forgot to mention to you a couple things on the last reply....you probably didn't get a lemon if you drove it 100 miles without any big issues. If you didn't have any shifting problems or power steering difficulties, you're doing about right. As for turning off the CEL, you have a few options. One is to buy a code reader (at any auto parts store) that has the capability to clear the codes too. ($100-$400) These are handy to do self-diagnosis and especially if you plan on keeping older cars for awhile. The second option is to go to a parts store that will check the codes for you. Ask around your area. I don't think they clear them for you - but they will tell you the basic problem. Third choice is to go to a repair shop or dealer and get it checked and serviced. Almost any shop is familiar with this engine and brake system. At this age, your car is likely due for several hundred $ in repairs, which are appropriate. Have the belt & hoses checked too.
After that you will probably get a lot of use in a reliable, comfortable GM car. These Buicks are pretty good.
Highland