QuestionI'm driving a 2005 Hyundai Accent that has been good so far. This week the "check engine" light went on and CarX mechanic in Milwaukee said it is the emissions solenoid. I cannot afford another repair right now. How long can I drive without complete repair of this issue? What should the mechanic do to resolve it? I'm working out of my home state and do not know a good mechanic here.
AnswerI've never heard of anything specifically referred to as an "emissions solenoid." Presuming he's referring to your purge control solenoid, you may be able to drive the car indefinitely without repair.
Did your check engine lamp on but not flash?
Does your vehicle run normally?
Does the engine start normally, especially after refueling?
If the answer to all the above is yes, you should suffer no ill effects from not performing the repair. Keep in mind, however, that since your check engine lamp is already on, you won't know if other problems arise.
