11 or 12 times .... it flashed and then went off??? generally reclicking the gas cap turns off the engine light ... just before getting gas just now .. Any standard meaning there?

 

misfire. Could be as simple as bad gasoline to bent valves.

 

Well, the CEL (check engine light) will typically flash of your reading a code. I'd start with trying to see if there's a code stored. It very well could be the gas cap (sometimes will come up as evap emissions control) that's causing a problem. If the system detects an air leak, it will throw up that code. Likely causes are fueling without shutting off your car, or just a bad or loose gas cap. You should never leave your car running while fueling. It keeps the exhaust hot and raises potential for fire if there's a spill, it's bad for your fuel system, because it's PRESSURIZED (hence fuel pressure regulators! ) and puts you at high risk to get your car stolen!