I have a 2001 Dodge Neon. It passed smog testing yesterday, literally. But earlier tonight while I was backing out of my parking space the check engine light came on and stayed on. So I checked the codes to see what was wrong. It first showed P1684 then P1294. I know one means that the car battery has been disconnected recently and the other is something to do with the idle... (Not completely sure, sorry). Anyway what could actually be causing the none battery one and is it ok to drive for the next few days til I can get it in the shop? I'm wondering if maybe something for jarred loose when they were doing the smog check. Because otherwise how would it have passed smog? Please use small layman's terms when answering. I really don't know that much about cars. And don't be afraid to go into detail of best case and worse case scenario. Thanks.

 

Since it passed smog and is running fine (I'm guessing), I would start by resetting the computer and seeing if the code even comes back. To do that, the negative battery terminal just needs to be disconnected for about 10 minutes. Also, if the car is running fine, I can't think of a reason why you couldn't drive it with the code and engine light until you need to pass inspection again.

If you reset and clear the code, and it comes back, I can give you a small list of things to check.

 

Thank you.

 

Ok
So I haven't gotten a chance to reset it yet, I planned on doing it after work. But it decided to go off on its own while I was driving. Should I still reset it or be concerned?

 

Reset if it comes back on just to double check.