[NavyCanDo]

My 2002 Elantra has been to the mechanic no less than ten times for the check engine light. My mechanic calls it the Gore Light because in almost all cases the light goes on because of the car not meeting the tough emission standards required by law. In my case it has been tiny emissions leaks in seals of valves associated with the fuel system. Even with these leeks, the car is much cleaner than a car built 10 years earlier. I can’t imagine what will happen if the requirements get tougher.

[Myrddin]

I can’t imagine what will happen if the requirements get tougher.

Let me help. Your next car will have a sticker price in the mid-$30,000 range for a stripped down, basic vehicle. When I was in 6th grade (1966), a VW bug sold for $2,000 new. By the time I was graduated from high school, the 1973 Old Omega (inline 6, manual 3-speed, manual steering) was offered for $4,600. Big increases due to air pollution control devices. My "no frills" 1985 T-Bird left the showroom for $13,000. More inflation and emissions control. I just purchased a 2008 Mercury Mariner Hybrid. $32,000 out the door. About $4,000 of that was fancy navigation, leather seats, "moon" roof. The non-hybrid V6 without the extra trim package leaves the showroom at around $23,000.

The new rules are going to significantly jack up the price and the auto manufacturers will strip away everything possible to keep the price "affordable".

[sgtbono2002]

My sons car spits out oxygen sensors like they are free, the damned light keeps coming on . Check Engine.

The one in my truck has been shining for two years now.
Screw it.