Tom

Tom,

Q My 2003 Chrysler Sebring with a 2.7-liter V-6 engine has a check engine

light on. The car runs fine, but the light still stays on. My brother told me to
ignore that light and keep driving the car, that it would straighten itself out
after a time. Is this right?

Wanda—Boca  Raton,  Florida

Wanda,

A The light is on because the computerized performance system of your car

is telling you that there’s a problem. Computerized automotive engine
management systems are so good at masking problems through self-
adjustment. The vehicle seems to run fine when in actuality there is a
problem that, if left alone, will result in more system failure and thus, cost for
repairs. Get it into a shop and have the system scanned for codes and repair
the malady before it turns into a nightmare of expense to you. Oh, and tell
your brother that if he’s willing to pay for the eventual repair costs that will
materialize as a result of his recommendation, that you will follow his advice
wholeheartedly. That should shut him up.