Engine light on and fog up inside when car off?

2006 TOYOTA COROLLA
87,000 MILES • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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KAITLYN BENNETT
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Hi there, I saw you answer a question on here that I think may be the same issue I am having with my car. Today I was driving, and my check engine light came on. When I got to work and came out at the end of the day the car was fogged up on the inside. I got home and I just went back out and saw it’s Al starting to fog up again on the inside. I also have noticed for months on the right passenger side the floor gets wet under the mat. I just had it for an oil change at the end of November and asked them to take a look, but they said it was okay but bring it back if I have issues. I am going to take it back to a shop this week and hope to get in by Friday but want to know if it is something you think is so urgent, I should not drive my car at all? I do drive about 20 minutes to and from work a day. Also, any insight into what you think the issue may be is very helpful in case they cannot figure it out.
Jan 2, 2024 at 7:24 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

It sounds like the heater core is leaking. Is there a film building up on any of the windows? Check under the dash on the passenger side to see if there is evidence of anything leaking. If the floor is wet on that side, this is my first suspect.

Next, make sure the engine coolant in the radiator and reservoir is full. The light may be coming on if the engine is running hot due to low coolant.

Let me know what you find.

Take care,

Joe
Jan 2, 2024 at 11:05 AM
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KAITLYN BENNETT
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Thank you, i will check these areas and I am calling this morning to take it in this week. Is this something that is a danger and I should not continue to drive or should it be okay to drive another day until it is looked at?
Jan 2, 2024 at 7:12 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,240 POSTS
Hi,

Just make sure the coolant level doesn't get low. Leave one of the windows cracked open when driving it so air can flow through the passenger compartment.

If you notice steam or an odd, sweet smell inside, that is coolant.

Let me know what they find.

Joe
Jan 3, 2024 at 5:33 AM
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