CEL - Pops up, goes away...

[johngyver]

I have a CEL that comes and goes. I just purchased a 2001 Rodeo Sport (3.2 V6, AT, 4x4) w/ 85k miles... I plan on doing all the TLC she needs. So far I have replaced the plugs with NGK Iridiums, changed the fuel filter and air filter. I was planning on changing the o2 sensor... then I found out that I have 4 of them! LOL So i thought I will swap them out when the funds magically show up! I saw that there is an EGR cleaning solution that I should probably do too. So that is a little history on the truck.... any thoughts on the "now you see me, now you don't" CEL?

Thanks all!

johngyver

[amigo-2k]

clean the egr and tighten the gas cap. Those are the 2 main reason for a CEL.

other then that head to auto zone (free) or purchase a reader to see what code is comeing up.

[johngyver]

Thanks Amigo-2k... I am gearing up to do the EGR cleaning... the gas cap is something I am aware of... I make sure to "go further than 3 clicks" as the gas cap states... have you ever seen a gas cap not work properly? I make sure that I tighten the cap as directed. I wonder if the cap is damaged in some way.

Thanks for the help!

johngyver

[rodeo4me]

Since you have changed your plugs to iridium it could be the cause of popping of CEL. Isuzu 3.2 engine's don't seem to like any other plugs except for one specifically stated in owners manual.

[amigo-2k]

seeing that you have a 2001 the OEM plugs are very important to the truck.

http://isuzufaq.ibctech.ca/#faq15

[johngyver]

Thanks guys for the feedback. The CEL light was popping on and off prior to the plugs being swapped. The plugs that were in the truck were probably not the factory plugs... and one of them was different as it was a Champion.... someone was lazy and did not want to remove a sticking boot. The Iridium plugs work great... much better than what was in the truck. I will do the EGR clean to see if that is the core issue and then revisit the spark plug swap... I like Iridiums... LOL, I'd hate to swap back.

On a note, I noticed heavy carbon built up on the old plugs.... no oil, just carbon. The tail pipe is black inside... as if it is burning rich. Any thoughts? Or is this normal for the 3.2 V6?

johngyver

[amigo-2k]

The carbon at the tail pipe is normal (I think I had 100 miles on my Amigo when I noticed the carbon at the pipe; now my wifes mazda 3 with 16k is super clean).

I think my plugs were a little grayish when I pulled them at 55k.

[johngyver]

Well, thanks for the help... I hope to become pretty masterful of the Rodeo/Amigo soon... after I earn my stripes by tearing it apart... and making it stronger, faster and more purdy!

When that day comes I may be of use around here helping out.

I hope to have a lot of things doen by mid November... I will post pics once done.

Thanks again!

[amigo-2k]

We like pics and write ups.

If they are good I'll link them in the FAQ's to help out others.