Check engine indicator lamp

[sophieD]

I have a 2005 Matrix with 6200 miles on it. The fuel tank was almost on empty Friday morning so I fueled up, did a little driving and went home. The next day, Christmas day, I drove about 15 miles total. The next day, I started the car and my check engine light stayed on. I read the manual, checked the fuel cap and tightened it. It was a bit loose. The manual said it would take a few driving trips for the light to go off, but I've put 100 miles on the car since then and still the light is on. I've taken about 15 trips since. How many trips is a few trips? I guess I'm taking it to the dealer in the morning but I'm nervous. I had a lemon Saturn before my Toyota and I can't go through that again. I love my Matrix. I'd love to hear thoughts on cause and whether I should be worried or not.

[matrixmanvvtl_i]

disconnect the negative terminal of the battery for at least 1/2 hour. what this does is it resets the ECU, give it a try, should work, I had a CEL when I put on my CAI and I left the battery disconnected for 1/2 hour and it hasn't been on since.

[mistamatrix]

Yeah, a loose fuel cap tends to trigger it. Make sure you make it 'click' a few times when you tighten it.

[mikes_matrix]

it usually take 40 trips to shut off the light ....just remove the Neg terminal of the battery & you should be OK
MIKE