What is the reasonable amount of times I must give the car shop to work on my car?

Just talk to them and ask them when you can expect to get it back. if they can't fix it, let them tell you that.

or else just see if you can take it, without paying for anything and take it right to the dealer.

i wouldn't take my car back to this place

If they have not actually fixed the car then demand your money back and take it to the dealership. Usually the service/check engine light will come on after you hit 100,000 miles and doesn't really mean anything. I think you are being scammed. Also, if your computer was the problem you would have noticable problems with the car, and from what you've said it sounds like you took it in based on the service light coming on. Good luck, Susu

I took my car to Amco (1150 Blalock Houston, TX) lask Thursday July the 3, 2008.
And yes, I'm now starting to believe that I've been scammed and that is why I am seeking help in order to prepare my case. I believe that I have to give the shop times to do or to correct their mistake; I must give them a benefit of a doubt first and then try to work from there.

And again, I now agreed to let them keep my car until Friday, July 11.
I need times and good advices on how to resolve that problem and I will not start the fight unless I absolutely have to. I am planning to file a complaint with the Attorney General office, leave Amco franchise a message (the shop is independenly own and operated) and hopefully talk to a lawyer or two.

I've been digging around and, so far, could not find anything better than Ms. Susu's.
Last Friday I tried to get my van and again it was not ready. I told those Aamco people that I do not agree to leave my van at their shop any more but still they would not let me have it back, so I call the Houston Police Department. The police could not help so I asked him for a report; just to show that Aamco detain/keep the van against my will and without my permission. I e-mail Aamco office, using Federal Trade Commission's form, and one of their Consumer Service Rep. name Gregory left me a message. I called him back 5 times, today, but all I got was his answering machine.
I owe them nothing. I've paid for that service, in full, last Monday, July 7. And now, I have to spent more times and money on rental car, to get some helps and possibly court cost!
What is my crime?
Thank you very much for listening/reading, especially to Ms. Susu. Thank You.

You are very welcome. I will do my part to let people know not to use Aamco. My best to you. Susu