What to do if the check engine light is on?
Well, at least it’s not red and blue flashing lights in your rearview mirror! The amber glow of the “check engine” light is never a wanted friend. This is understandable when you take into consideration the many reasons that could cause a “check engine” light to illuminate. One of the worst being that your car may need an engine rebuild, The fact that it is probably going to cost a lot of money is unnerving.
The “check engine” light is part of most all newer vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system. This is the computer that monitors your engine’s performance such as engine speed (RPMs), air to fuel ratio, and ignition timing. When a “fault” within the system is internally detected, the “check engine” light or “service engine soon” light will illuminate.
What happens if you continue to drive with your engine light illuminated? It may be a while before you notice that your vehicle’s performance is weakening. Also, your fuel mileage will not be as efficient and your vehicle could be emitting high levels of pollutants into the air.
Here’s what to do if your “check engine” light is on:
- Observe - Check the gauges on your dashboard. If any of them look abnormal you should pull your vehicle over and shut off the engine immediately.
- Check Your Gas Cap - Try tightening or replacing your gas cap. A simple loose gas cap can cause the “check engine” light to illuminate.
- Reduce engine performance - If you notice that your vehicle’s performance has decreased, reduce your speed and avoid towing or transporting heavy cargo.
- Avoid Emissions Testing - If your check engine light is on, it’s highly likely your vehicle will fail your state’s vehicle emissions test. Wait until your car is repaired.
- Have your vehicle inspected - If the “check engine” or “service engine soon” light illuminates, observe whether the light is constant or flashing. A solid glow indicates your vehicle should be inspected soon. A blinking light, however, is cause for concern and means that your vehicle needs immediate attention.
If your “check engine” light or “service engine soon” light comes on, don’t wait! Waiting most likely will cause more damage to your vehicle and will repair costs.
Need to know what to do if the check engine light is on? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about an engine rebuild and to schedule an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.
Well, at least it’s not red and blue flashing lights in your rearview mirror! The amber glow of the “check engine” light is never a wanted friend. This is understandable when you take into consideration the many reasons that could cause a “check engine” light to illuminate. One of the worst being that your car may need an engine rebuild, The fact that it is probably going to cost a lot of money is unnerving.
The “check engine” light is part of most all newer vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system. This is the computer that monitors your engine’s performance such as engine speed (RPMs), air to fuel ratio, and ignition timing. When a “fault” within the system is internally detected, the “check engine” light or “service engine soon” light will illuminate.
What happens if you continue to drive with your engine light illuminated? It may be a while before you notice that your vehicle’s performance is weakening. Also, your fuel mileage will not be as efficient and your vehicle could be emitting high levels of pollutants into the air.
Here’s what to do if your “check engine” light is on:
- Observe - Check the gauges on your dashboard. If any of them look abnormal you should pull your vehicle over and shut off the engine immediately.
- Check Your Gas Cap - Try tightening or replacing your gas cap. A simple loose gas cap can cause the “check engine” light to illuminate.
- Reduce engine performance - If you notice that your vehicle’s performance has decreased, reduce your speed and avoid towing or transporting heavy cargo.
- Avoid Emissions Testing - If your check engine light is on, it’s highly likely your vehicle will fail your state’s vehicle emissions test. Wait until your car is repaired.
- Have your vehicle inspected - If the “check engine” or “service engine soon” light illuminates, observe whether the light is constant or flashing. A solid glow indicates your vehicle should be inspected soon. A blinking light, however, is cause for concern and means that your vehicle needs immediate attention.
If your “check engine” light or “service engine soon” light comes on, don’t wait! Waiting most likely will cause more damage to your vehicle and will repair costs.
Need to know what to do if the check engine light is on? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about an engine rebuild and to schedule an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.
