The service engine light and the security light turned on?

Tiny
SHERRIJ118
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 CHEVROLET CAVALIER
  • 4.2L
  • V6
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 69,000 MILES
The car takes like 3 times to start.
It acts like it's out of gas.
Tuesday, August 29th, 2023 AT 7:03 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,705 POSTS
Hi,

If the anti-theft/security light is on and stays on when you try to start it, try a different key. The key itself may have been damaged or failing.

Next, since the check engine light stays on when the engine is running, there are diagnostic trouble codes stored in the computer.

Here is a link that explains how to retrieve codes:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/can-scan-controller-area-network-easy

If you don't have or have access to a scan tool, most parts stores will scan it free of charge. Have that done and let me know what codes are found.

Take care,

Joe
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Tuesday, August 29th, 2023 AT 8:01 PM
Tiny
SHERRIJ118
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
It's not the check engine light it's the service light I just had oil changed and it came back on 3 days later when the anti-theft light came on.
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Tuesday, August 29th, 2023 AT 8:29 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,705 POSTS
Hi,

If the service light comes on for something like an oil change, do this. Turn the key from off to the run position (engine off). Within five seconds, press and release the gas pedal three times. Count to 5 after you release the pedal for the third time and turn the key off.

The service light should be off.

Next, to determine if there is an issue with the anti-theft, turn the key to the run position (engine off) and allow it to stay on for approximately ten minutes. See if the light then turns off.

Let me know what you find.

Joe
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Wednesday, August 30th, 2023 AT 6:52 PM

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