Service engine soon light

Hi:
If the check engine light is on, the computer has stored a trouble code which will identify where the problem is coming from.

Take the car to a nationally recognized parts store and have them scan it. Most will do it for free, and then we will know what to do.

Let me know what you find.

Joe

Is the engine overheating when you stop?

You might want to check the cooling system for pressure or do a compression/leakdown test.
Theis will telll you if there is a blown head gasket or other issues.
Check fuel pressure. Try running some high quality fuel system cleaner such as SEA FOAM or BG44K. You might have to go to a service station. Expect to pay $10-20 per can and run 2 cans. You willl need to change the oil afterwards as it works sos well the deposits it removes gets the oil dirty.

Ave you tuned it up? As in Spark Plugs, Plug Wires, etc? If so how long ago?

The intake and throttle body could be dirty, as well as the Idle Air Control Valve, (IACV), and the Fast Idle Thermo, (FIT). If the Intake tract and throttle body are dirty, that can affect performance. If they are dirty, the IACV, (which controls the idle as the engine load increases from; power steering, air conditioner, headlights, other accessories, etc. The FIT control the idle in sort of the same way, but it works when the motor is cold like a choke and it can fail which can affect the idle even after the motor is warmed up.

There are also emissions stuff like Exhaust gas return, Positive Crankcase Pressure, PCV Valve, etc. Which can have some affect but not as much as the other items.

Try the fuel cleaner and check tune up items as well as tests. Then get back to us.

One other point. What are you using to measure temp?
You might want to spend $20 on an Infrared thermostat to have a consistant baseleine.
Make sure your cooling fans are coming on. Turn on A/C and make sure condenser fan comes on.
You could have a bad radiator cap or theremostat. Check for pressure after stopping and letting maotor sit just a minute if hot. Grab the upper radiator hose and if it has pressure, it is like a short version of the real pressure test.

Have the PCM scanned for any codes. You can take it to most auto parts stores and get a free powertrain scan, however since it won't move you may as well tow it to a transmission shop or dealer, unless you can borrow a scan tool.

Hopefully it is an issue with the transmission linkage.

First thing to check are the fuses both in the car and under the hood especially the ones marked PCM or ECM! If the fuse is NG you will have these symtoms, cross your fingers!

You might want to try the security system. Turn the key to on for about fifteen minutes, then see if it starts. These systems dissable fuel and sometimes the starter. But if the security mod thinks the key is wrong, you wont get PCM reading.