An engine problem is likely if your check engine light is on. Never dismantle the light just to avoid a potential problem. Light bulbs, however, burn out from time to time and need replacement. The check engine light is part of a larger component called an instrument cluster. Dismantling the light is essentially the same as dismantling the instrument cluster. The extra step, however, is removing the light bulb at the end.
Place wooden blocks or wheel chocks around the wheels.
Pop the hood and disconnect the cable from the negative terminal on the car's battery. This will disengage the air bag system and keep you from accidentally triggering it. You may need to use a memory saver, as disconnecting the battery will erase settings in the radio and other computerized settings.
Engage the parking brake and lower the steering wheel as far as it can go. You may have to move the transmission shifter as far back as it can go depending on the car you own. This is why you blocked the wheels in the first step. The instrument cluster can be cumbersome and you need to create room to work.
Remove the instrument panel bezel. This is the plastic fitting over the edges of the instrument cluster. Use a trim tool for this and carefully pry it off. You will have to use multiple prying points and you should keep an eye out for retaining clips. The bezel also will be shaped differently by make and model. If you have concerns regarding your particular vehicle, it would be beneficial to own a Haynes or Chilton's repair manual for your exact make and model.
Remove any mounting screws you see on the instrument cluster. How many depends on the vehicle.
Pull the instrument cluster forward carefully. You do not want to scratch any trim panels and you do not want to damage the cluster itself. You will find wiring on the back. Undo the connector.
Make note of the check engine light's location and turn the instrument cluster around to look at its reverse side.
Unscrew the check engine light bulb.
