On my way home today my check engine light came on. So I stopped by my local Autozone to get the code and buy the part. He told me something I wasnt suspecting. He couldnt get the code because it was a "Hard" code and their machine only read "Soft" codes. Did I get a guy who doesnt know what hes doing or lazy?

1st: Whats the difference between the codes?
2nd: Do I really have to take this to the dealership to get my code read so I can fix it?

04 Civic Si 80k(today)
Please help.

Thanks,
Brad

 

Either hard of soft code, he should able to pull the code. Maybe he don't know how to use the scanner. lol

Hard code = something you need to fix/replace, it won't reset on it own.

Soft code = something that will reset on it own, like getting a evap code where this will usually happen if the your gas cap is not tight, then if you tighten you gas cap and drive a little, CEL will goes away.