I bought a 2001 Cherokee about a week ago and the engine light came on several days ago. I took it to my mechanic and his scanner indicated that it was due to the gas cap not being on tight. He reset the light but today the light came on again. I made sure the cap was on tight, but the engine light has not went off. Do I need to reset it again? Just wondering if this is a common problem or if there is something else I should have checked out on it. I'm a newbie here, any info. is greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

Did you read the new code to see if it is the same as the first code? Without knowing the actual error code it is virtually impossible to tell you anything.

 

Hi Steve, I haven't had time to check the code, but I hope that it's only an issue with the gas cap. The Jeep starts right up and idles fine. No misfires or noise from the engine and the oil pressure and temp is o.k. I will have it scanned again tomorrow. - BTW - if you have to explain it, I probably won't understand anyway. (!)
- Sioux

 

Many auto parts stores will scan codes for free.

 

Thanks Mark, sounds good!

 

Put a little Vasoline on the sealing part of the cap's gasket and reset the code. If the code reappears, you have an evap leak in the vent hoses. A smoke test should find it.

 

Thanks for the info. Dave! I'll give it a try!

 

buy a scanner for ~ $30. It will pay for itself in time & money the 1st time you use it