“Is your engine still there?” the new guy at the front desk asked, and I chuckled, but luckily was able to talk to K., the co-owner of the auto-repair franchise.

I’d explained my problem — earlier this week, I’d had my oxygen sensors replaced on Monday. They were bad and triggering my “check engine” light. Not a huge deal, but also a repair neccessary for my vehicle to pass my emissions test which I knew was coming up. So since I had my vehicle in anyway for a new serpentine belt and a tune-up, I figured I might as well get it done.

The problem is the check engine light popped back on Tuesday.

Especially considering oxygen sensors run about $500 for the pair.

Anyway, K. asked me to bring it back tomorrow, and I’ll have the car in the shop by seven. I’m fairly convinced the problem has to do with the install — maybe the sensors weren’t properly calibrated, or plugged in, or something. Or maybe they were just bad to begin with. Whichever. Tomorrow it gets resolved, and I’m off the hook for the cash.

Unless the “check engine” light is referring to a problem other than the oxygen sensors.

Son of a …