Suzuki: Check engine light, engine management system, acceptable parameters

Question
I own a 2001 Suzuki Esteem. The check engine light keeps coming on. What does this indicate and how can I stop it?

Answer
The light indicates that some portion of the engine management system is operating out of normal acceptable parameters.  It will be necessary to hook up a scan tool to query the fault memory, and determine what fault code(s) are stored.  Then diagnosis of the offending part(s) is then undertaken.  Sometimes it's very easy, and the fault leads directly to a single part, and sometimes it's less easy and straightforward.  Obviously, it will be necessary to either replace something, adjust a faulty switch (rare these days), or repair a faulty electrical connection.
scotty