Hyundai Repair: 2000 Accent check engine light, auto parts retailers, vacuum leak

Question
The check engine light has recently come on and the engine now seems to idle a bit too slowly and a bit rough when first started.. seems okay after it warms up though... Any ideas? - PS Is there a way I can get a code reading tool to do my own diagnoses, or are these really expensive?

Answer
It's difficult for me to diagnose this based on your description.  It could be a misfire, a vacuum leak, or a faulty idle actuator, just to name a few of the many possibilities.  The trouble code from the engine control module (ECM) will give me information as to the nature of the problem.  If you can get the trouble code, follow up with that, and I can recommend how to proceed with diagnosis and repair.

I've seen code readers for sale at Sears and auto parts retailers.  The price for the code reader will vary depending on the reader and what it will do.  Additionally, AutoZone and AAMCO have advertised that they'll read codes for free.