1997 Ford Taurus Check Engine?

Question

I just purchased a 1997 ford taurus and it was driving fine, but after i just took it for a little drive it started to run a little loud and then the check engine light came on, my step father just changed the radiater fluid and the oil which was thick like tar, we're gonna leave it overnite to cool down because the engine was a little hot, even though the indicater in the car didn't say it was hot, and then start the car in the morning to see if the engine light goes off, it's running fine as of now, but does anyone know what could be wrong or have had any similar problems?

Thanks

Answer 1

unicorn is right,,except for the reputable shop,,,,

now a days most tech ,,especially the commission base pay,,will replace all the related part on the code that they pull,,which is ok too,because would you rather let them diagnose the real cause, which is usually a single part,and pay them per hour, on diagnosing...or just replace all,which is usually the same ,money wise...unless of course you could find the Right tech to do the job,which is hard even on the dealer

Answer 2

Take it to the dealer and have them pull the codes from the computer.  Even if the light has reset itself it stores the trouble codes for future recall.  

Answer 3

Your 1997 has OBDII. On Board Diagnostics (2nd generation). The system will store a code if a sensor detects something outside the designed operating parameters. That does not mean the system detects what is wrong. Experienced technicians need to pull the codes and then confirm (if possible) that a specific component is faulty. Unfortunately, some parts stores like Autozone will pull codes and then sell you a bunch of parts based on those codes. I've seen a lot of people get ripped off by them. Your best off taking it to a reutable independent shop. You can find a list of them in most areas at this site

http://www.certifiedautorepaircenters.co...