993 engine question

[Bullet Bob]

I am in the market for a 993 and a seller had this to say regarding an engine light that come on:

"The engine light came on a year ago and it was a starter problem. I replaced the
Starter. It does however need tires shortly."

This is a '96 that has 68k miles on it and it has been on the market for some time and it seems to be fairly priced which makes me suspicious. Would the engine light come on for a starter issue, or would it most likely be an OBDII issue?

[Don Plumley]

I'm not sure how a failed starter would cause a CEL. However, there are many things that could intermittently trigger a CEL - related or unrelated to a starter.

Regardless, if he had a problem fixed, and the mechanic cleared the CEL, then in theory the problem is resolved. What you want to make sure is that the fix was not removing the bulb. So get it connected to a PST2 and see for yourself.

[kang]

Lots of things can trigger a CEL, but for a ’96, the thing that comes to mind first is the “Secondary Air Injection” system, or SAI.

Take a look at the sticky thread at the top of this forum on “CA Smog and the 993 – OBDII, Readiness and SAI.”

CA Smog and the 993 - OBDII, Readiness and SAI

[aigel]

The check engine light generally is only for emissions related issues. A starter would not trigger it. The OBDII is an open book. A PPI would reveal any remaining issues with any of the emissions equipment. The seller may just be ignorant, don't freak out right away and run from the car. Check it out carefully and then decide.

Cheers,

George

[Bullet Bob]

Turns out that the car has been in an accident. "No frame damage though". Yeah right.

[aigel]

Of course there can't be frame damage - the 993 has none!

I would still look at the car - if it is discounted enough (read: cheap) and has good documentation about the wreck.

George