Check Engine Light Removal

[1998catera]

Does anyone know if you can remove the Check Engine light? Is it a dummy light that you cannot remove? If it is, can I bypass it in any way?

[Cat-a-Tonic]

Most dash indicator lights are replaceable so you could just take it out. But What good's that gonna do. Hide the symptom to ignore the problem? Check the codes as per the tech bulletins :
Additional information on Trouble Codes and Diagnostic Procedures specific to the 1990 OBD-II Cadillacs. & See; Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
for OBD II (OBD-2) equipped GM vehicles
on the web

[ewill3rd]

If the check engine light is on, your car needs to be fixed.
Taking the bulb out is just going to make it easy to ignore your vehicles deterioration. Most CEL problems usually add to bigger problems later on if unattended.

Secondly removing or disabling the bulb is illegal. It's called "emissions tampering". Also in many states with inspection programs it will make your car fail the emissions inspection.
It's easier to fix it usually than it is to disable it.

Good luck, whatever you decide.

[1998catera]

Just so you know, I have deciphered the problem. It is a minor sensor in the emission control sensors. The problem is, it doesn't tell you which one. So, to solve the problem you randomly replace sensors and see which one it is. I was told it would probably be a minimum of $500 depending on how many are bad. So, I was planning on removing the light until I get it fixed, not ignore it!

[ewill3rd]

Don't be upset, you didn't make any of that clear in your first post.
I can see why you'd be frustrated, how about telling us what the code is and maybe we can help you fix it, or did you already do that?
I don't know of any "minor" sensor that requires replacement of sensors until the light goes out so I am a little confused.

I would recommend that after this experience, you calculate a small monthly amount into your budget to set aside for things that come up with your car. They don't run forever, and you have to spend some money on them from time to time. Carmakers make us think that all we have to do is buy the car and drive it, sometimes.

Not trying to insult you, so don't take this as a flame. I'll be more than happy to help you isolate your problem with some more information. Who gave you that other information?

To answer your question, as noted above you can remove the instrument cluster and take the bulb out, but I strongly recommend against that.
Do you have a photo of your favorite person you could stick in the dash and cover up the light with? (without covering something important that is) That might be easier, until you can get it fixed.

[El Dobro]

Originally Posted by 1998catera

Just so you know, I have deciphered the problem. It is a minor sensor in the emission control sensors. The problem is, it doesn't tell you which one. So, to solve the problem you randomly replace sensors and see which one it is. I was told it would probably be a minimum of $500 depending on how many are bad. So, I was planning on removing the light until I get it fixed, not ignore it!

Just curious, haven't you have the system checked with a scanner to narrow the problem down?

[1998catera]

Yeppers. The mechanic said the code referred to only an emission system sensor malfunction. He didn't give us a code (dad took care of it).

[El Dobro]

A good scanner will tell you exactly which sensor is going. Sounds like the mechanic just used a code checker.

[miahcornell]

If you want, you can go to the auto parts store and purchase a technologically advanced part. Its called "electrical tape". It is black and comes on a roll. What you do is cut a piece off of the end about 3/4 to 1" long, and adhere it to your dash. When you do this, be sure to cover the "check engine light". This "electrical tape" has a special adhesive on the back of it, so make sure to put it with the adhesive side down. This has worked wonders for me with cars of my past.

PS Not be cocky just being dumb. Happy thanksgiving!

[Cat-a-Tonic]

Maybe it'd be better to cover the "check engine" light area with a good luck charm on double sticky foam tape. It'd serve dual purpose!!

Jerry O,, on the east side of Lake Huron.