1999 Taurus check engine light

[RK4332]

On my 99 taurus, i can drive it for about a half hour, then the check engine light comes on. If i pull the battery cable off, it turns off, and put it back on, its good for about another half hour. Any ideas?

[fragmore]

If the car runs fine, don't worry about it. I used electrical tape over the light on mine, and it still runs fine.

Go to a local parts house and have them check your codes.

If you have a serious problem, see a reliable mechanic.

Or go to your Ford dealer, leave your wallet, credit cards and a blank check with him, he will turn off the light and keep the rest.

[shorod]

Most chain auto parts stores will scan the diagnostic codes for no charge. Get them scanned, get the numerical codes, and post them here. Kindly listen to suggestions the parts salesperson offers, but post the codes here anyway. You codes will likely be in the format of Pwxyz where w,x,y,z can be any single digit number.

Also, before spending too much time on this, make sure your fuel cap is tightened properly.

By all means, don't just ignore the check engine light. If it coming on for a reason, and if ignored, may lead to more severe and expensive issues down the road.

-Rod

[Millermagic]

Besides the fact that you can damage the car, some states like New York and California won't pass the vehicle for inspection if the check engine light is on. I know in New York, even if you disconnect the bulb, they still scan it to see what codes are coming up.

[Johnny Mullet]

Get a scan and post the codes found here.