I just recieved a 1996 GXE and the check engine light was on showing 3 codes. (the oxygen sensor, the EGR valve and the knock sensor) The car has been sitting for a while so we assumed that was the reason. I've driven the car for about 700 miles and now the check engine light is off. Could it have been that the light was on b/c the car just needed to be driven for a while or can I expect it to return?

 

Try waiting a while. . .

 

Sometimes something may have just fired wrong for a brief moment and sent a code. If it doesn't come back on you should be just fine. If it does replace the O2 and EGR sensors first.

 

If it's a 96, I'd go with the k.s. first.

 

How do you figure, most 96 maximas had a recall for all the O2 sensors. See first if you can get the dealer to replace those for free if the problem persists.

 

Is there a website that list all the recalls?

 

I figure because the k.s;s go out pretty soon, the car is 8 yrs old, and some 99's are even having K.S's go bad. . .try the 02's but the K.S is still a better bet

 

If the MIL went off, then its fine. You can set the ECU in test mode by turning the screw counterclockwise, then run the test

 

An automotive instructor where I work recommends changing out O2 sensors by at least 80K miles. I have gone from an average 22 mpg to 26. I estimate the payback time at about 25 tanks of gas. If you have an obd2 tester, see what all the codes are, up to 60. There may be a cause for the visible ones. Reset the codes and see if anything happens.