Honda Repair: check engine light, distributor cap, local auto

Question
my honda is a 91 civic . my check engine light went on while driving and at the same time the car seemed to shudder. then it did it again while my boyfriend was driving and it stalled so he put it in neutral than started it again, and when i was driving did the shudder and the light went on. whats going on? it has about 194,000 miles, the alternator is 4 years old. new timing belt with about 10,000 miles on it.

Answer
Nissa, the shudder is the car stalling. Either due to loss of spark, fuel, or air. The key is the check engine light that is coming on. This is saying that there is a problem or problems. The check engine light needs to be evaluated and diagnosed for proper area in need of repair. This can be done for free at any local Auto parts retailer. Also, you can take this to the dealer but they will probably charge you for the service. Whichever the choice is yours. Also when was the last time you had a tune-up done? Meaning Distributor cap and rotor as well as Spark plugs and wires? Also, replace the fuel filter and air filter too. These are the basics for proper maintenance for any car, especially one with 194K.