Way to decode newer cars?

[OneLethal87GN]

The check engine light came on in my 2000 Cavalier Z24 the other day. It stayed on for a day or so then went off. It hasn't come back on but if it does is there a way to pull the code w/o taking it somewhere or buying those very over-priced scanners at Advance Auto?

 

[SilverSleeper]

Nope.
You have to have an OBD2 code reader (or a friend with one) to decode most anything 96 and newer.

If it comes on, and goes away without any noticeable problems otherwise, it could be your gas cap.
One of the common codes set by OBD2 cars. Just make sure your cap is on tight. Happens to my 96 Astro once in while. Temperature extremes will set it off as well as not having the cap on tight enough.
Gone are the days of the paper clip!

 

[kshef]

i though places like advanded auto, napa, etc... could pull codes for free

 

[AZ Vic]

CSK, Autozone and advance should be able to pull them for free. Best thing is you don't have to have the light on to see what code set it off - it has a memory. You could go in today, have it tested, and they can tell you what code(s) set it off.

Personally, if you can afford it, I would buy a tester for the OBD II systems. ALL cars have gone to them as of 1996.

Good luck