2004 Corvette, Engine Dashboard Symbol On

[John L.]

I am the original owner and its a 20,000 mile car. Over the weekend, the Engine Symbol Light came on and according to the owners manual it is emissions related. My questions, what is the likely cause for the Symbol to come on and is it okay to continue driving the car? Thanks

[Tom B.]

Re: 2004 Corvette, Engine Dashboard Symbol On

The check engine lite monitors many different things from engine and transmission. It is ok to drive but should be addressed in a prompt manner. You"re not supposed to drive if its flashing due to it can cause component degrading.

[Jim D.]

Re: 2004 Corvette, Engine Dashboard Symbol On

Possibly an O2 sensor. Almost every auto parts store will read the code for free. DON'T take it to the dealer.
A common trigger for that light is the gas cap not being tight. Once tight, it will take several run cycles for the light to clear itself.

[Terry M.]

Re: 2004 Corvette, Engine Dashboard Symbol On

There are dozens of reasons for that light (sometimes called a "Check Engine" or MIL Malfunction Indicator Light) to come on. Some FLAPS (Friendly Local Auto Parts Store) offer free scans of the car's computer. They will read a code and translate that code to the system that set the light. They offer this service for free in the hope they can identify the part most commonly at fault and sell you that part. Scanners are available for prices from $20 to the thousands that will give you the same information. If you chose to go to your FLAPS write down the code and look it up in your FSM (Factory Service Manual). The FSM will tell you what it takes for the computer to set that code. That will narrow your search considerably.

[John D.]

Re: 2004 Corvette, Engine Dashboard Symbol On

john

If you post the diagnostic trouble code (DTC) here i can help with the service manual diagnostics and/or relevant service bulletins. If it's an Evap issue related to a loose cap it should reset itself after you fill the tank and drive the car.

john

[Leif A.]

Re: 2004 Corvette, Engine Dashboard Symbol On

And, if you left your car's engine run the last time you filled up with gas, you can almost be assured that the "check engine" light is on because the computer was sensing the fuel system was not sealed while the engine was running. Others have covered the loose gas cap (which is almost always the issue).

[Michael W.]

Re: 2004 Corvette, Engine Dashboard Symbol On

Most modern cars (not specifically sure about Corvette) inhibit the EVAP system slef test when the tank is above ~80% or below ~20% to avoid the majority of false loose cap warnings.

[Carl N.]

Re: 2004 Corvette, Engine Dashboard Symbol On

You can pull your own codes on any C5 Corvette. No need to go to parts store. Just "google" how to pull codes on 2004 Corvette and follow instructions. You may need to clear all old codes (write them down for reference). Lots of how to on the Corvette Forum in C5 section. Not hard to do. No tools required. Suggest you become familiar with technical section for C5 Corvettes in the Corvette Forum as there is a wealth of knowledge posted on that site.

Follow this link to you tube video on "how to " www.youtube.com/watch?v=SviRjIsy9G4

Follow this link to discussion -http://www.corvetteforum.com/forums/c5-tech/3080263-diagnostic-trouble-codes-dtcs.html

[Patrick H.]

Re: 2004 Corvette, Engine Dashboard Symbol On

I bought an inexpensive cable with free downloadable program for my old netbook to use as a diagnostic and reset tool, and also bought a Bluetooth connector with free ipad app to use in the same manner. Both work, and I can diagnose or reset any time I want. Cables or Bluetooth plugins are not very expensive if you want to do this yourself.