Del Val Miata Club

I have a 1999 miata the check engine light won't go out. Had it checked by the 

shop I use for my other cars. and the local dealer. The dealer had the light out when

 I picked it up but it came back on the next time I drove it (3 months) Battery was on 

battery keeper.  

Any ideas. 

Thanks Hank.

Hank:

Check Engine lights are a funny thing. They can be a big deal or no deal. I've been driving my Boxster with a CEL for 10 yrs & 60,000 miles. Same with my Vette & my Honda Odyssey for 12 years and over a 100k miles. I've forgotten why the CEL is even on.

Getting back you, has anyone told you why the CEL is on?

A simple code read would let them know what's causing it and then it would be your call whether to address it or not. The reason the CEL was off last time you picked the car up is because your guy must have read the code and then had his code reader clear the code. The issue is still there so it's only a matter of time before the CEL comes on again.

I clear my codes each time my cars are do for NJ State inspection. I bring it to the MVC and pass each time and within a short time the CEL is back on.

Are you sure no one told you what's causing the CEL to come on? Evidently no one thinks it's a serious issue.

If you are located anywhere near central Jersey, the East Brunswick area and you want to have possibly the best Miata guy in NJ/Pa look at your car you should get it to Dave Deerson @ T&Z Auto in South River. He can take apart and rebuild a Miata with his eyes closed. He's a one man shop so be patient if he does not answer the phone or respond to your voice message in minutes.  732-257-2664

Good Luck

Morris West

Sounds like you need a competent mechanic.  A trip to Piazza Mazda in West  Chester will fix the problem.  Their best mechanic is their shop Forman, his name is Jeff.  Insist on him to as your mechanic to get the problem fixed on your 1st visit.  Piazza Mazda gives DeVal members a 15% discount.  No matter where you live the drive is worth the trip if you want things put right.

Go buy a cheap code reader from any parts store. Scan computer ,retrieve code. Look up code on internet or repair manual. Could be something as simple as gas cap loose if code is for EVAP system. By the way in Pennsylvania you will not pass the emissions inspection with light on. Also if you just clear code the cars ready monitors must be set to pass emissions test. Generally the amount of time driving needed to set monitors will also bring the light back on.