I am driving a 1998's Honda Accord LX. In December 2007, the engine malfunction indicator was on so I took it to a local Honda dealer where they replaced a catalytic converter. However, after few weeks, the light was on again. I thought that I might have a defect fuel cap so I bought a new one by Stanley from Wal-Mart. The light went off after 3 trips. However, the light was on and off for few times. In May, 2008, I took the car to Meineke and was given a code P1456. The Meineke reset the light (the light was turned off) and told me to go to the Honda dealer for help. I did and the dealer did the emission test and other tests with no problems at all. However, because the light was turned off by Meineke, the Honda dealer told me to bring it back to them when the right was on. I was not charged but I bought a genuine Honda fuel cap from the dealer just to make sure the fuel cap does not cause the problem. Today, June 9, 2008, the light was on again and I took my car back to the Honda dealer. I was issued the same code P1456 and received the same tests. Once again, the dealer did not find any problems. I was charged $98.67 this time. The deal told me to bring it back when the light is on. Here are my questions. When the light is on, it should indicate some problems. When tests do not show any problems, the light should be off. I am wondering whether the dealer has the ability to detect the problems at all. I am also wondering that I may be charged again and again whenever the light is on and I take it to the dealer. I know it is a 10 year-old car. I do not have any plan to replace it because of my financial situation. I would appreciate if you can give suggestions. Thanks.
Lee