Why in the age of full color IPs do we still have a generic "check engine" light?! The wife's 2011 Bluetec with just under 40k illuminated the useless light on the way home from the grocery store. I know most of the time they are simply for emissions related things and yes I checked the gas cap. Anyone know if a simple OBDII reader will be able to read the DTCs? I suppose it is still under warranty so it will likely end up at the dealership after I take care of the D maintenance items.

 

autozone for the win. free readout.

 

Check your manual. There are several areas that could have a problem, such as the ignition system, gas, converter, etc. My check engine light came on, then stayed off, but since battery was original and 7.5 years old I changed to a new one. Several weeks later car cranked and cranked but would not start. Finally started after about 15 minute cool down, but warning light stayed on.
Problem turned out to be crankshaft position sensor was bad.
Warning lights have a purpose!

 

oh I'm not against warning lights, I like warning lights. I'm against a generic warning light in the days of full color IPs. At the very least you should be able to view the DTCs without an external device and at best get a full description of what the DTC is warning you about. Sounds like they can still be read by the auto parts chains so that will have to do.