Nissan Repair: 1997 Nissan Sentra, nissan sentra, oxygen sensor

Question
The Service Engine light came on on my daughters car (she's away at school). Now it doesn't start. What is the probable cause? The car is in good condition, relatively new battery. Was checked 5 months ago before she went away to school and mechanic said no work needed at that time. Not driven a lot since then.

Answer
It goes to figure that the car would break down while she is away at school.  I would be looking at getting a code reader to see what codes that show up.  How long was the light on before the car died?  Does the engine crank or is it dead like no lights and no noise when you turn it over?  I would be checking the basics first.  On a 1997 a check engine light could be as simple as an oxygen sensor or something complex like injectors.  The best thing to do is make sure the battery has a charge and then check the codes.  After replacing or correcting the problem the codes state you should be ok.  If not it is always back to the basics.  Is it getting gas and spark...