My check engine light came on four days ago. What is my next step?

Quit trying to play auto mechanic an take it to a qualified repair shop . Tight wad

Yes the computer should store a code if the light flashes.

The charging system in your vehicle is computer controlled ,checking for DTC'S - diagnostic trouble code's should alway's be the first step in the diagnostic process ,testing for B+ voltage at the wiring connections at the alternator would be the next step if no DTC'S are stored . The single heavy gage wire on the back should have Battery voltage , the wire's at the connector ,three out of the four should have B+ voltage an the # 3 wire is the control circuit from the ECM - engine control module . Four fuse's supply B+ voltage to these connections . 10 amp gauge #1 , 7.5 amp gauge #2 , 7.5 amp ALT-S an 120 amp ALT fuse. If any one of these is blown the alternator won't charge . If you know nothing of automotive electrical system testing ,your best bet would be to take your vehicle to a qualified repair shop.

Go to one of the larger commercial parts stores. Most of them will read the codes for free (and try to sell you the parts to repair).

Have the check engine light checked out. Thats when the problem started. It was warning you there was a problem. When that is diagnosed, it will lead to the fix.

Check the spark plug wire and spark plug on #8!

2004 Honda Pilot engine light came on this morning. Last bought gas 5 days ago. Auto Zone checked and found code P1456, emission control system leak detected (fuel tank system)
Four options;
1) Loose fuel cap
2) Vapor canister saturated
3) Failed vent solanoid
4) Failed purge solenoid

Thanks.

If you don't tighten the gas cap (make it click at least four times) when refueling it will turn the check engin light on. The dip stick is located in the front of the engine and is a yellow loop.

The first thing to ask is this, how does the car run? Does it still run the same as it always did, or is something different? The next thing to do is to get the car scanned to determine what code is stored in the computer that is turning on the check engine light. I certainly understand being broke, so most larger auto parts stores will scan the light for you for free. They wont fix it or give much in the way of advise, but they will at least tell you what code or codes are stored. Once you know what the code (s) are, then you can determine what the next step should be.

You've made the correct decision. Let the dealership diagnose the issue. They'll tell you EXACTLY what the problem is and what's needed to fix it (parts, labor, tax, time-frame, etc.).