Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common reason for check engine light on a 1998 Toyota Tercel?

• Most often it's an oxygen sensor or an EVAP leak (loose gas cap or small vapor leak) causing rich/lean readings.
• Other frequent causes include misfires from worn spark plugs, ignition components, or a weak fuel system.
• Left unchecked, these issues can reduce MPG (27 city / 35 hwy on this model) and damage the catalytic converter.
• Servicing at Nalley Toyota of Roswell often costs less than independent shops while delivering OEM parts, factory diagnosis, and documented long-term savings.
• Warranty-covered repairs must be performed at a certified dealership to remain valid.

What does it mean when the check engine light comes on in a 1998 Toyota Tercel?

• It signals the engine control module detected a fault in emissions, ignition, fuel delivery, or sensors.
• Codes range from simple EVAP faults to misfires that can harm the catalytic converter if ignored.
• Diagnostics identify the exact trouble code; clearing the light without fixing the cause will likely allow the issue to return.
• Using our dealership ensures OEM-level diagnosis and faster, more reliable repairs that lower lifetime ownership costs.
• Remember: repairs covered by warranty must be completed at a certified dealership to preserve coverage.

What is the first thing to check when the check engine light comes on?

• Start with the easy checks: secure the gas cap and confirm proper fuel level; a loose cap often triggers an EVAP code.
• Listen for abnormal noises and note drivability symptoms like stalling or hesitation.
• Bring the car to Nalley Toyota of Roswell for a professional scan—the proper scan reveals stored codes and freeze-frame data.
• Prompt dealership diagnosis preserves fuel economy and prevents more costly repairs later, often resulting in immediate and long-term savings versus piecemeal fixes.
• Warranty repairs must be performed at a certified dealership to remain valid.

How much does a check engine light diagnostic cost for a 1998 Toyota Tercel?

• Diagnostic fees vary, but Nalley Toyota of Roswell offers transparent pricing and service specials; check our Service Specials page for current offers.
• Often the dealership diagnostic fee is competitive and, when combined with accurate OEM repairs, costs less over time than repeated independent attempts.
• Once diagnosed, estimates for parts and labor are provided so you can decide; timely fixes prevent expensive downstream repairs.
• If a repair is warranty-covered, it must be performed at a certified dealership to preserve coverage and savings.

How long does a check engine light service take?

• Simple diagnostics and small fixes (gas cap, sensor replacement) can be same‑day—often within an hour or two.
• More involved repairs, such as catalytic converter replacement or complex misfire diagnosis, may take a day or longer depending on parts availability.
• Our service advisors provide realistic timelines and updates; using a dealership’s parts network and OEM tools speeds repairs and minimizes downtime.
• Choosing Nalley Toyota of Roswell often delivers both faster turnarounds and lower lifetime cost compared with multiple visits to independent shops.