Honda Malfunction light

My Malfunction light went on the other day...I read my manual and my gas
tank cap wasnt fully on when I checked it. The manual said if that was the
problem that the light would go off in "three trips". Is a "trip"
considered just going somewhere or coming and going?? I.e. driving 3 times
or 6?? I have driven two days with the light on and it hasnt left! I know
it happened with the gas cap not fully on but now Im paranoid something
else might be wrong..but im literally a starving student and dont want to
get ripped off going to the mechanic when there might be nothing wrong at
all....also my front headlight bulb is burnt out..could that be it too???

Sorry to have such a generic question...any input would be greatly
appreciated!

 

Try pulling the Clock/Backup Fuse. This will clear the codes and MIL.

See http://www.tegger.com/hondafaq/faq.html#reset

 

an off/on cycle, IIRC

autozone supposedly checks/ resets codes. aamco has a commercial saying
they do. even ive got a code reader- if you lived in the vicinity of
long beach california id do it myself.

nope. engine only sets a code when something "important" to the engine
or emissions happens.

 

I disconnected the battery to reset the malfunction light and it hasnt come
back on yet...thanx for all the help!! You guys saved me from possibly
being scammed at a car shop..