Malfunction Indicator Lamp/check Engine At 60k Miles

[buckeyes]

I've got a 97 SC300 and I reached 59900 miles the other day when a light displayed on my dashboard. The light that came on is described in my owners manual as the "malfunction indicator lamp." The light can be described as a graphic that appears to be an engine with the word "CHECK" thereunder. I'm assuming this is the check engine lamp. Does anybody know if this lamp illuminates automatically when it's time for the 60k mile service? Thanks in advance.

[lexus082]

The check engine light comes on when there is an error. Find out what the code is and go from there.

[buckeyes]

Ok so I had an independent service tech check it out yesterday. While he did not give me the specific code he told me that it was the oxygen sensor. According to him, there are 2 oxygen sensors. Anybody know if this is correct?

Anyway, they cleared the malfunction so the check engine light is no longer illuminated. He then told me that if it comes back on again (which he said is likely) then I should bring my car back in and they'll check it again & go from their. I thought this was weird since they had my car all day as they performed the 60k mile service. I assumed they'd call me and tell me about the problem and obtain my permissission to make the necessary repairs.

Everyone always says find a reliable independent mechanic. Anybody have any suggestions on how to do this? Specifically in the Los Angeles area. I searched google, citysearch, yellowpages and then tried to cross reference my selections on the Better Business Bureau website and calling the facility to obtain price quotes. I didn't see any recommendations included in this forum.

[LuckyApril7]

I'VE HAD the same problem and trust me the first thing that goes bad when those check engine lights come on is the oxygen sensors. There are 2 of them. Right and left. DO NOT just replace only one. Because if one goes bad most likely the other one will follow suit. Change both of them while the mechanic is already under your car and has all his o2 sensor tools out ( he'll most likely charge you cheaper if you get both now rather than one at a time ). I had mine replaced with an aftermarket O2 sensor ( not a original lexus ) and it only costed $50 each ( japanese made too ) I found out the sensors were very easy to reach, take out, and install. Thats why the labor price wasn't so bad. My check engine light went out and my car runs great !

[buckeyes]

Thanks for the advice on replacing both sensors. Does anybody have any recommendations regarding independent lexus mechanics in Los Angeles (i.e. mid wilshire, west hollywood, hollywood, west la etc.)?