Miata Mailing List: September 1998, Message #17

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Oh woe is me...

Last night i started my baby up and before i saw the light on, i felt
something wrong, the engine didnt start up smoothly, as it usually does,
but it was sort of rocking hard, then calmed down, but the light blinked
a few times (couldn't count, but it was more than twice) then continued
to stay on.

checked the gas cap - tight.
checked the fuel - full.
checked under the hood for anything obvious - found nothing.
let it run for a few minutes - light stayed on but she seemed to be
running normally.

some history for the past few days - she hadn't run for about 24 hours,
and the last time she did run, it was just for about 30 seconds to move
her from one spot to another. i know i know i shouldnt do that, but i
couldnt push her and i thought it would be okay. before that, she hadnt
run for about 12 hours. the place where she was sitting was a very damp
area - lots of trees and moist surroundings. the only other thing that
was out of the ordinary was when i pulled up to the car there was the
neighbors cat sitting on it, she set off the alarm - probably more than
a few times. i wasnt there so i dont know. could that have something to
do with it? i dont think so, but right now i dont know what to think.

my question is - is that what could have caused it? the only other
option in the manual is electrical short or something. i didnt drive her
because i was nervous. should i drive her to the dealer? if i call them
they're just going to come pick her up anyways, since she seems to be
running fine. how long does the light take to go off? I just dont know
what to do, so of course i thought of you guys. anything you can suggest
is much appreciated.


oh man, this stinks =(
TIA
michelle & magic *cough cough*