What does the Check Engine warning light mean?

The Check Engine light means there is a problem with the car's engine. This may be due to faulty spark plugs or faulty sensors.

Since the early 80s, the check engine light can be found on almost every car. An engine check indicator has been implemented to try and keep engines running efficiently while reducing fuel consumption. As you drive, the car's computer monitors various aspects of engine and exhaust performance to determine if everything is working properly. Anything abnormal and the computer will turn on a light to alert the driver that a malfunction has been detected. Check out some vehicle diagnostic tools with ProCarReviews OBD2 recommendations to help you pinpoint the problem you've found.

While many people dislike the check engine light and tend to ignore it, the check engine light can be a very useful warning if you understand what it means.

What does the check engine light mean?

As mentioned earlier, the main reason light was introduced in the first place was to try and make the engines as efficient as possible. The first time you start the engine, the indicator should come on for a few seconds to make sure the lamp is working. You should replace the light bulb if you don't see it light up during startup. If the light stays on after startup, the computer has detected a problem somewhere and has stored a code in memory to help identify the problem.

Some common reasons for the light to come on include faulty spark plugs, faulty engine sensors, or even a loose gas cap. First check the gas cap and make sure it is fully tightened. If the gas cap isn't the problem, you'll need to plug the scanner into the car and read the code to figure out what's going on. Usually the problem is rather minor, but this warning signal should never be ignored as small problems tend to escalate into larger and more costly ones if ignored.

If you ever see this light flashing, it indicates a serious misfire in the engine. You must stop as quickly and safely as possible and turn off the engine. A misfire can cause unburned fuel to enter the exhaust system and then enter the catalytic converter. A catalytic converter typically operates at several hundred degrees, so the fuel is burned inside the exhaust, further raising the temperature. Too much heat and the catalytic converter will quickly burn out and you will have to pay dearly for repairs. In such a situation, the vehicle should be towed to prevent serious damage.

Is it safe to drive with the engine light on?

Even if this indicator is lit, it does not mean that a malfunction is currently occurring. Certain faults may only occur from time to time, but the indicator will remain on until certain parameters are met. This usually involves normal driving, and if no faults are detected for some time, the computer automatically turns off the light. It's always best to check the lights, but sometimes driving normally for a few days can turn off the lights and you won't see them again.

If you notice a difference in the way you drive your car, chances are the lights won't turn off until the problem is fixed, in which case you shouldn't ignore this warning. As mentioned, if the light is flashing, there is a real possibility of serious damage and you should not drive the vehicle until the problem has been resolved.

If your check engine light is on and you want to know why, our certified technicians are on hand to help you determine the cause of the problem.