Engine Malfunction Indicator Lamp

[lysbec]

I've only had my Smart for 3 weeks and noticed last night the Engine Malfunction indicator lamp lit up and stayed. I was in the course of a 60 mile drive, made it home perfectly with no problems. Has anyone had this experience? I wonder if it is an "idiot light" problem as opposed to an actual engine problem? -Lysbec

[JPaul]

According to your profile, it's not possible to tell if your car is an 08. Right?
Check that you have really screwed your gas tank cap tightly (you should hear it click) and that your gas tank flap is also closed and flush. Those may be the cause...

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engine malfunction indicator

[nodakkid]

Besides the loose gas cap, you may have switch malfunction on the secondary blower for the emmissions. I had the same problem awhile back. I first called the 1-800 number, who suggested the gas cap then told me to return the car to the dealer (they were great on the phone, even called me later to make sure that I made it to work). The service guys knew all about it and had the switch on-hand since it has been happening frequently. If you search the site, you should find additional information on this malfunction as some folks bought the part and fixed it while the dealership took about 1 hour.