would a defective switch cause the check engine light to stay on?

 

It should not as far as I know ,a faulty switch is like a firewall to your computer so it hinders your engine starting up .
Press VCM button and if it also throws a code please shoot it here , our experts will gladly help you out

 

thank you regentv12 ,i'll try that and let you know. dan

 

regent v 12 i checked the vcm code and it said fuel 12. would you have any clue as to what that means? thank you, dan

 

That's good at least it popped out a code . I will check out my owners manual if it states anything about it , I will let you know .I am not expert but glad I could guide you right way . BTW , I am editing your title so that it will attract more attention

 

Hey, quick update
I looked at the manual and saw a topic on inertia switch . I am uploading an image so that you can see a resetting procedure for it .
I found check engine code that corresponds 12 and here is why you get it , it is from MAF according to what I found
Hopefully these will work for you

 

Oh Danny boy:
You should get a copy of the Haynes manual for this car. It is by no means the Bible, but can be helpful in troubleshooting. Page 6-7 outlines how to go about checking the MAF sensor. It may need to be replaced.

The inertia switch, if tripped, would completely immobile your car. I don't think it's related.
Cheers,
Scott