Chrysler Repair: Check engine light come on, what to do?, chrysler cirrus, gas consumption

Question
I have a 98 Chrysler cirrus lxi, the check engine light will flash while driving then it will jerk and shut off. If i put it in park it will turn back on. What could this be?

Answer
Hi Ceclia,
The check engine light is saying that the engine control module has recognized a malfunction and has recorded a 4-digit fault code in its memory. Take the car to an Autozone parts store for a free (in most cases) readout of the memory to get the fault code number(s). Ask for the numbers, what they mean, and what they recommend to do. Then write back and tell me the numbers and we'll compare notes. If there isn't an Autozone near you, then an independent shop will do the readout for around $40.
That is the standard approach to finding out what is the problem. It probably is something that impairs the pollution control devices of the engine, but it also could be something that affects its performance or gas consumption. So get the fault code readout.
Roland