My gosh is it ever embarrassing and annoying to have this light on at all times.

I own a 2004 Lancer ES. Bought it used from a private seller. I did not know much about cars back then. The seller must have "reset" the battery to temporarily turn the light off.

I have spent a lot on the repairs ever since I got it ($3000+) and now I am left with a smoothly running car, but with the "check engine light" running on.

I believe it is nothing too serious. As my dad's old truck as it running on too, also my uncles car. I have been driving it for a while. (Have not kept track of my mileage though).

It is annoying as I am an OCD-ish child. It gets on my nerves to have a light such as this be on every single time I'm driving.

It is also embarrassing, especially at night. Cruising around until you hit a stop light. Driver in the next lane pulls up besides you, looks at you but then the orange-ish light grabs his attention. Bad impressions...

Any suggestions to fix this problem? I am in an urge to get a new car because of this.

 

What code is it throwing?

 

Scan it and let us know the code its throwing - We will be able to help you more that way.

 

I'll let you guys know when I have the time to get the code.

Back then while I was naive, I bought it into a dealership and had them check it out. Guy came out telling me it was my catalytic converter, and would cost a $3000-$4000 to install. Wtf?

Could this be true? What if I parted out a cat. converter from a different lancer and get someone to install it for me?

 

I had a new CAT installed for 350$, dont let the dealership rip you off.
BTW, that 350$ included the price of the CAT + install.

 

There are 2 cats on the lancer. If need be, you could replace both for well under a thousand if you look in the right places. Stop at auto zone or orielly or some auto parts store and they can pull the codes for free. Let us know what number the code is and then we can try to help.

If it's running well it might be the egr not opening as it should or something simple like that...

 

replace the cats yourself. gotta get your hands dirty but it will save you money, and you will have acquired a skill.