I just had a quick question, the CEL light, does it just come on for a short while before u start up the car or will it stay on even after starting it? It's a newb question I know, please be gentle.

 

I'm under the impression that it stays on while the car is running. It will normally light up briefly during starting the car, but this is just diagnostics

 

it should not stay on while driving.. if it stays on check for codes..

 

ok phew, i just got scared cuz i never paid attention when i turn that first click after i put the key in (where it turns on the radio) and all the other lights turn on till after u start it. Thanks Matt.

 

All the lights turn on when you turn the key to on, ABS light goes away. They all should turn off when the engine is running.

 

light comes on during startup to make sure its working, then should go off after a second or so.

If your CEL/SES stays on after startup and is:

- "solid" on - the ECU has detected something wrong and should be fixed as soon as you can

- flashing - fix immediately