1998 Pontiac Sunfire Owner's Manual - Page 141

This light will also come on during a malfunction in one of two ways: 0 Light Flashing-- A misfire condition has been detected. A misfire increases vehicle emissions and may damage the emission control system on your vehicle. Dealer or qualified service center diagnosis and service may be required. Light On Steady An emission control system -malfunction has been detected on your vehicle. Dealer or qualified service center diagnosis and service may be required. If the light continues to flash, when it issafe to do so, stop the vehicle. Find a safe place to park your vehicle. Turn the key off, wait at least 10 seconds and restart the engine. If the light remains on steady, see "If the Light Is On Steady" following. If the light is still flashing, follow the previous steps, and drive the vehicle to your dealer or qualified service center for service. 0 If the Light Is Steady On You may be able to correct the emission system malfunction by considering the following: Did you recently put fuel intoyour vehicle? If so, reinstall the fuelcap, making sure to fully install the cap. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed. A loose or missing fuel capwill allow fuel toevaporate into the atmosphere. A few driving trips with the cap properly installed should turn the light off. Did you just drive through a deep puddle of water? If so, your electrical system may be wet. The condition will usually be corrected when the electrical system dries out. A few driving trips should turn the light off. If the Light Flashing Is The following may prevent more serious damage to your vehicle: 0 Reducing vehicle speed. 0 Avoiding hard accelerations. Avoiding steep uphill grades. 0 If you are towing a trailer, reduce the amount of cargo being hauled as soon as it ispossible. If the light stops flashing and remains on steady, see "If the Light Is On Steady" following.