Is it possible a broken exhaust was preventing the service engine soon light...

[Sean Mallory]

To break this down to the lowest level, you took your ZJ somewhere ("they fixed the exhaust"), and now you have a CEL and multiple codes. You do the math.

 

[BirdOPrey5]

I'd also be tempted to just clear the code, then start it and let it get completely up to temp a couple times to see if it persists.

Is clearing the code necessary? Will it just go away if the problem goes away after a period of regular driving?

 

[Sean Mallory]

Right, the CEL will go out if the problem isn't there, but the computer will store the codes for 50 restarts I believe. Resetting the computer will clear the codes and it's not a bad idea, since it will start over learning.

 

[wct097]

Is clearing the code necessary? Will it just go away if the problem goes away after a period of regular driving?

Some conditions will cause the CEL to go off when the condition no longer exists. Others will persist for a specified number of key-on-off cycles (where the engine runs for 3-5 minutes I think). It's easier to just clear it and see if it comes back than to wait for it to go off.

 

[Sean Mallory]

Plus you clear codes that may not be related and no longer applicable. Start with a fresh slate.

 

[Brock]

scrap the zj

 

[Sean Mallory]

scrap the zj

Take it back to Pepboys and have them fix what they broke.

 

[BrandonM7]

I'd imagine 'catalyst efficiency' is the only code a cracked exhaust might suppress. It would have to be cracked between upstream and dowmstream O2's

That's what popped into my head, too. My buddy has used spark plug "no foul" adapters to solve the code caused by his bad cat.

 

[BirdOPrey5]

Is there some way to clear the code without removing the battery and with no special tools- as in- something my mom can do?

 

[wct097]

Might be able to get an auto parts store to do it for you. I can see that being outlawed in the commie state of NY though.

 

[John]

To break this down to the lowest level, you took your ZJ somewhere ("they fixed the exhaust"), and now you have a CEL and multiple codes. You do the math.

That was my first instinct. I'm also not certain that the Avalanche needed all of the shitload of work that they charged him for.

 

[pirranah]

Do what all ZJ owners do and unplug the light

 

[BrandonM7]

Is there some way to clear the code without removing the battery and with no special tools- as in- something my mom can do?

Think you could talk her through disconnecting the negative post of the battery and letting it sit for a while so the capacitors drain? 13mm wrench (or adjustable) to loosen the clamp bolt, flat screwdriver and/or pliers to spread and wiggle the cable off of the post. Let it sit that way for as long as you like, 10m should be plenty. Newer stuff has static mem to keep codes but a '96 should clear once all power is gone.

 

[BirdOPrey5]

Think you could talk her through disconnecting the negative post of the battery and letting it sit for a while so the capacitors drain? 13mm wrench (or adjustable) to loosen the clamp bolt, flat screwdriver and/or pliers to spread and wiggle the cable off of the post. Let it sit that way for as long as you like, 10m should be plenty. Newer stuff has static mem to keep codes but a '96 should clear once all power is gone.

Absolutely not. Mom is deathly afraid of car batteries, she won't even use jumper cables or the battery charger we have.

 

[BrandonM7]

Absolutely not. Mom is deathly afraid of car batteries, she won't even use jumper cables or the battery charger we have.

That's fair. I don't know your area, but I know when I was working at the parts store if a mom came in and asked I would have done it for her. Maybe others can come up with better options.

 

[wct097]

Absolutely not. Mom is deathly afraid of car batteries, she won't even use jumper cables or the battery charger we have.

OOC, what is the reasoning behind her battery-phobia? Is it just car batteries or is she scared of changing the batteries in a TV remote too?

 

[Ralph]

13mm wrench

1/2"

 

[John]

OOC, what is the reasoning behind her battery-phobia? Is it just car batteries or is she scared of changing the batteries in a TV remote too?

This

 

[Wharf Rat]

OOC, what is the reasoning behind her battery-phobia? Is it just car batteries or is she scared of changing the batteries in a TV remote too?

I'm wondering if it's connected to her deathly fear of gasoline.

 

[Glenn]

Most parts stores will read codes and try to sell you parts that the computer says "may" be the problem. Not too many will erase the codes anymore, they will claim liability issues. Litigious society is great, right comrade?

That's fair. I don't know your area, but I know when I was working at the parts store if a mom came in and asked I would have done it for her. Maybe others can come up with better options.