Engine Light On

[Zapiel]

I just sold my 97 Civic today and am planning to get a 240sx fastback. I came upon a stock 1990 240sx fastback 5 speed, pass smog, and clean title. I called and asked for pictures and more details and she told me that the engine light came on the other day. She also said there are no overheating or leaking issues, and that her friends say it could be the o2 sensor (her friends own 240sx).

Now I am not a mechanic so I came here to ask after lurking for a few days. Any help or information would be appreciated. Looking to buy a 240sx asap since I have no car to drive.

[Rabboni]

First off, NEVER believe someone who is trying to sell you something. Second, without her putting the car into diagnostic mode and reading the cel blinks, we cant help you. Thirdly, no car can pass smog in CA with a check engine light on.

[fliprayzin240sx]

Look up how to put the ECU into diagnostic mode and how to read the code. One of best things you can learn how to do on these cars....

[Zapiel]

Thanks for the replies.

I just called her and she said she smogged the car in September 2010 and that the engine light came on a few days ago. She also said it's been 90 days or so now, so we will have to smog the car again if I were to put it under my name. But are there any ways around this? My friend said the smog should last for 2 years.

[NissanEnthus]

Why do you open this thread to NOT listen to advice? going "around" stuff is gonna bite you in the ass. Just like Rabboni just stated never believe what a seller tells you especially a "she" who has to ask someone else what it could be. Ask to take the car to a mechanic to check it out BEFORE you buy it. If they say no F-Them and find yourself another 240 their a dime a dozen. You can go to any Ez-Lube / Jiffy Lube and they might have a scanner to read what code its throwing out for free. It might be a cheap fix or costly fix that you wish you never bought.