That switch on the back of the gauge cluster is for the Maint. Required light, not the check engine. If your check engine light is on, you have a code stored. The CEL does stay on, does not flash. Find out what that check engine light is telling you before you start throwing parts at it.

Try this for your start problem.
http://www.4x4wire.com/mitsubishi/tech/inhibitor_switch/

It would also be a good idea to clean the throttle body and idle air control motor. The mass airflow sensor can get dirty too.


I just want to tell you both good luck, and we're all counting on you.