Check engine light on, suspect bad oxygen sensor..

[Timothyap5vm]

The Check engine light came on today.. How do I check it without using a scanner, or can i?

I may use a scanner if i can get access to one, but where do i plug it in?

I suspect the oxygen sensor is bad, because it gets slightly low mileage and the inside of the tailpipe is black..

I havent changed the sensor yet because i cannot afford a new one, but prolly will very soon.

Oh and by the way, the engine isn't a 1.8, its a 1.5 because its an LX. Figured that out by further research and by the VIN too.. My bad.. lol

Also, do any of you know how to correct oversteer??

Anyways, any help is appreciated..

 

[changedman]

1) you plug it in under the steering wheel, near the hood release.
2) it could be an oxygen sensor, but realize that the inside of the exhaust of EVERY car will be black...
3) you correct oversteer by purchasing suspension mods

 

[Timothyap5vm]

Sorry if i didn't make it clear enough... The tailpipe tip is a sooty black.. It looks excessive..

How much will it cost (CDN) to have the codes checked by a dealer?

 

[Matthew]

if yo u have an auto store most do it for free..tell them you need an OBDII scan

 

[kcbhiw]

Also, do any of you know how to correct oversteer??
QUOTE]

If you currently have a stock suspension, I doubt you are experiencing oversteer. 99% of all cars from the factory are dialed in for understeer. If you truely do have oversteer do the following:

Stock suspension:
1) Lower the rear tire pressure
2) Have the rear toe-in increased

Aftermarket suspension:
1) Larger front sway bar and/or smaller rear sway bar
2) Adjust (if applicable - assuming adjustible struts) the rear struts to a lower setting.
3) Reduce the rear spring rate (replace the springs)
4) Lower the rear tire pressure
5) Increase the rear toe-in (1/32" - 1/16" at a time per side)

...just a few suggestions.

As far as your O2 issue, many Autozones and Discount Auto chain (perhaps even Pep Boys) stores will scan your computer codes for free. This is the only way to determine why your CEL is illuminated.

 

[pdxp5]

You can reset the check engine light by disconnecting the negative battery cable and then pressing on the brake pedal for 10 seconds. This won't fix any problems, but if the problem is intermittent you should be able to get an idea of how often it occurs by when the light comes back on again.

 

[changedman]

and then you won't know what the error ever was if it doesnt come back