Mitsubishi Repair: mitsubishi lancer 02 OZ, home mechanic, service engine soon light

Question
My "service engine soon" light is on.  THe dealer said there could be many many possible problems when that light is on, but I don't want to go to the dealer cuz you know they rip you off.  When the light is on, at times, my 4-spped auto transmission will not shift up to the 4th gear, leaving it at the 3rd gear so if i floor it, the RPM just goes way way up.  also, when i'm at a light, there is some vibration on top of this rattling sound.  I think my car needs major check up, has aoubt 75K miles...what should i do?

Answer
Eric: Got an AutoZone close to you? They would run the codes for you and tell you what is needed to be fixed. You keep doing what you are doing to your engine and with time you will blow it. Have you checked the fluid? Is it brown or smell burnt? You will have to let a shop someplace fix this because it is difficult for a home mechanic to properly diagnose and service this. So let a shop check it out but make them give you idea what might be wrong and how much it will cost. Then get it in writing, in that they can not do anymore to your car then what you have agreed to and to the cost of that work. If they replace any parts, ask for your old parts back. Get a manual on your car, you can get them at any parts store. Read up on your car and then you will know if the shop is trying to rip you off or not. Hope this helps and good luck!