After much trial and error here in Texas trying to fix CEL error codes (despite 2 brand new O2 sensors) in my 01 SE that drives and runs like a TOP, I have found the formula that works. You can get a device that will clear your codes, but you MUST keep that device long enough to make sure your sensors are restored to READY status on inspection after you clear those codes. And finally, if you actually have a bona fide error code that comes up, you must have the car inspected as soon as the sensors are ready again after driving around, but if you drive to much, the sensor will again fire the code. But you have a window of opportunity, here's how to capitalize on it and save 1500 in meaningless repairs to keep your car "legal".

Go to Autozone and check out (160 dollar fully refundable deposit) the OBD II scanner. Plug it in under your steering wheel under the dash. Scroll to the ERASE CODES. Then constantly check MIL STATUS. For all the sensors, monitors, etc. the device will give you one of three indications of the status of each as you drive and the computer updates the sensor data:

1. N/A (not available) means that sensor doesn't exist on your car (and therefore you aren't responsible for that)

2. INC (incomplete) means not enough driving and data collection have accumulated since clearing the codes (DTC's)

3. OK means the sensor is ready to SENSE problems.

On an 01 model vehicle back to like 1996, you can have one INC reading on your inspection. So the MOST important point is that once you have enough of your sensors reading OK to pass the inspection, drive to your nearest inspection station immediately before the sensors then have enough drive time to actually detect the problems they were detecting before you cleared the codes. I have used this method two years in a row on a Max that's thrown CEL's almost from year two of ownership. Good luck, what a pain in the ****.