Hi all,

My CEL came on the other day while I was driving -- not sure why, the car seems to be driving just fine and all my electronics work (read: my stereo system).

Anyway, the dealer is charging $110 for a diagnostic fee, plus the cost of what the fix might be. I am wondering if that's worth it, or if I should rather take my car to my normal mechanic (who is quite good) and get it done cheaper. Or should I buy a scanner (recommend one if you can!) and see what's going on, and then get it fixed?

Please let me know.

Thanks!

 

Just go to autozone and they can read the code for free, write it down and search for that code on this site and you will find answers

 

I'd say, buy a scanner and you'll know if you'll have to take the car to a dealer, to a local mechanic or just buy a new gas cap

 

Autozone, AAMCO, either will check it for free.

 

is your 04 out of warranty?

AutoZone scanner MIGHT be able to read the code but not all those code readers can pull the Mazda specific codes.
I'd recommend picking up something like the Scanalyzer. It's capable of reading codes, clearing codes, logging data, AND showing you real-time figures.

If you've got a laptop handy, there's nothing better then the Scanalyzer.

 

get a scangauge, nice to have in your car anyway.. monitor real time data and read/clear cel codes.