You’re driving along in your vehicle, and suddenly a light illuminates on your dash. Like most drivers, you may be unsure how you should react. The check engine light is the most misunderstood indicator on your dashboard: It can mean many different things. Known technically as the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL), this warning light in your instrument cluster is in the shape of a car engine. Depending on your vehicle, the light can be orange, red, or yellow. Some models display “check engine” with the engine outline or “service engine soon.” It is not to be confused with your vehicle’s maintenance or service required light, which alerts you that an oil change or other scheduled maintenance is due.
The check engine light signals that the onboard diagnostics system has detected a malfunction in one of the vehicle’s systems. Read on, and we’ll explore some possible issues that can cause this alert to show so you can get to the bottom of the issue.
Why Is My Check Engine Light On?
If the check engine light is on steady, the problem is likely not an emergency. Check your dashboard gauges and lights for indications of low oil pressure, overheating, and other critical system failures. If there are no other indicators or performance issues, you should schedule a service appointment at your earliest convenience. Today’s automotive computers often try to compensate when there’s a problem, so you might not notice deterioration in performance. Ignore that warning, and you could end up damaging expensive components. It can also signify that your car is getting poor fuel economy and emitting higher levels of pollutants.
If the check engine light is flashing or blinking, this indicates an issue severe enough to cause damage to critical systems. If the check engine light is blinking or you notice any serious performance problems, such as a loss of power, reduce your speed and try to reduce the demands on the engine. These conditions mean you should pull over and shut off the engine as soon as you can find a safe place to do so.
Some specific issues may be:
Loose or Faulty Gas Cap
One possible cause for your check engine light activating is an issue with the gas cap. Fortunately, this can often easily be remedied by simply tightening the cap more firmly in place. If you tighten the gas cap as per instructions in your vehicle’s owner manual and still see the check engine light, the gas cap might need replacing.
Spark Plugs Need Replacing
To ignite the fuel in your vehicle and kick off the combustion process that powers the engine, your vehicle needs to spark the plugs. If the spark plugs begin to become worn, this could cause the check engine light could activate. Bring your vehicle in for service to have the spark plugs replaced. If the light goes off, the problem is solved.
Malfunction in the Oxygen Sensor
Your vehicle monitors the engine’s airflow to determine how much fuel needs to be used to power the engine. If the monitoring sensor isn’t working correctly, your engine won’t perform as efficiently. If you see your check engine light on, it may be time to replace the oxygen sensor.
Catalytic Converter Issues
The catalytic converter helps to minimize the environmental impact of your vehicle’s emissions. If there’s an issue with this component, it might cause your check engine light to come on. In addition to replacing the catalytic converter, you should also figure out what caused the issue in the first place so you can take care of the problem at its source.
What should you do next?
- Many modern vehicles have integrated remote diagnostic capabilities, with the ability to report on trouble codes, advise on the next steps, arrange for towing and schedule a service appointment. Use these built-in diagnostic services if available.
- Contact Roadside Assistance. Your vehicle may have roadside assistance through its manufacturer. It is also usually offered through your auto insurance provider or available through third-party providers. When you’re stranded on the side of the road, a roadside assistance program will connect you with the right professionals to get you back on the road safely.
- Call your dealership Automotive professionals can guide you through the next steps, whether that means bringing the vehicle in for diagnostics, organizing a tow service, or arranging alternate transportation.
Every driver should understand the meaning of warning lights that signal problems with their vehicles. Your owner’s manual will illustrate where the symbols appear on your instrument panel and help you interpret their meaning. Take this information seriously and pay attention to any warning light that comes on.
Remember that many vehicle breakdowns are avoidable with preventative maintenance. Preventative maintenance is often neglected as it can seem expensive or unnecessary, but you’ll appreciate the investment when an issue is identified before causing a breakdown. If something unavoidable happens despite all your efforts, you now know what to do should that check engine light come on.
Whether you’re looking to take care of your service needs, like getting to the bottom of a check engine light or upgrading to your next ride, our dealership is the place to go. Find used cars for sale and used trucks for sale at Zimbrick Automotive! Stop by today or contact us online.
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