It’s Not Good To Ignore Your Check Engine Light

There is a light that many drivers fear when they see it illuminated on the dashboard, and that light is the check engine light. This light is an indication that many vehicle owners fear because it means that the onboard diagnostics system (or OBD II) of the vehicle has detected a malfunction in the vehicle’s emissions, ignition, fuel, or exhaust systems. It could be produced by something as modest as an unfastened gas cap or a defective sensor or spark plug, or it may be as severe as a flawed catalytic converter or main engine issues, so you should not disregard it. All cars and light trucks have onboard diagnostics meant to identify engine-related complications that influence the emissions control systems.

The check engine light should illuminate for a few seconds every time you turn on the engine with other warning lights. If it stays on, that is indicative that there is an issue. If your check engine light is flashing instead of remaining illuminated, it indicates a serious issue that needs to be rectified immediately. Many of the customary reasons for an illuminated check engine light are forthright and easy to decipher, but occasionally, an engine light indicates something grave has gone erroneous.

Flashing of a check engine light usually specifies a critical issue that necessitates rapid restoration. Anytime you see a check engine light indicates, you must take your vehicle to an auto repair shop as soon as possible. Discounting a flashing light escalates the likelihood of supplementary issues, which include ravaging a high-priced catalytic converter. Once you see an illuminated check engine light, call and make an appointment to immediately see your mechanic.

If the engine light is lit up, but it does not flash, you should first tighten the gas cap before rushing to a mechanic. You should rush to see a mechanic because if there is an open gas cap, it can set off a check engine indication. Double-check to see if the light goes off after several times; you attempt to start your engine and monitor it for a few days. If the problem continues, a mechanic will need to analyze the issue by electronically intercepting into an OBD II connector which is located underneath the dashboard to read diagnostic codes that will help sequester what enabled the check engine light to illuminate; it could be a spark plug gone bad, or a sensor issue.

Many automotive shops provide free diagnostic testing to their patrons. If it’s a spark plug issue or sensor issue, you may be able to gather what is required and replace it yourself without making a trip to a repair shop if you choose the do-it-yourself approach to car repair. Even if your vehicle neglects to perform well and your mileage isn’t plummeting, it is not a good idea to disregard a check engine light. If you reside in an area where vehicles have to pass periodic emissions tests, an illuminated check engine light indicates that your vehicle will automatically fail.