The easiest way to reset is to remove the negative battery cable for about a minute, but it will come back on within a few miles if there is still a fault, and you will still fail an emissions test if the "drive cycle" hasnt been completed before they hook up. After the drive cycle completes, if the fault is still there the light will come back on.
If you want to see why the light is on, you will have to retrieve the code from the car. Autozone or o'reilly will connect a reader for free. With the OBD-1 in your car
you have a fault code on emission systems
On a ( 1996 ) Mercury Tracer , the " check engine " warning light is at theBOTTOM of your instrument panel under the right hand side of the fuel gauge ( under the " F " )
Try this link, ! http://www.extreme-check-engine-light-codes.com/Ford%20OBD1%20Decoder.htm
Check bulbs Check Fuse Check stop light switch
Check the brake fluid level in your brake master cylinder in the engine compartment ( the brake light also comes on if the parking / emergency brake is applied )
Check the engine. ===================================================== There is a problem with something that effects the emissions of the engine You need to have the vehicle scanned for any trouble codes to help diagnose and then repair the problem
On a 1997 Mercury Mountaineer : The " CHECK ENGINE " warning light is just to the left of the battery voltage gauge
There are hundreds of things that can cause the check engine light to come on. See related questions below for more info.
no.
Check and fix the engine.
You buy a new car
If your check engine light is flashing , an engine cylinder misfire has been detected