What does the check engine light mean?
Whenever the check engine light comes on, an alarm sounds. It’s designed to cause panic, to let you know that something is wrong with your car. But is this warning light always a serious problem, or are there times when you can put off repairs?
This guide will help you understand what this malfunction indicator light (MIL) means. We’ll also explain the difference between a solid light and a flashing light and list the most common causes of the warning. Finally, we’ll give you some tips on how to fix the problem and answer the most important question:
What does the check engine light mean?
The check engine light indicates that your vehicle’s computer has detected a fault that needs repair. Issues can range from minor issues, like a loose gas cap, to more serious problems, like a faulty sensor. The check engine light will look different depending on the vehicle model. It can be a variety of colors, including orange, yellow, and red. It may also include a picture of an engine and words like “Check engine,” “Repair engine now,” or “Check drivetrain.”
Since the 1980s, vehicles have used on-board diagnostic systems. These systems are responsible for controlling and monitoring performance, regulating engine speed, ignition timing, and air-fuel mixture. Today, everything is computer-controlled, right down to the instructions for the automatic transmission. Steady and flashing check engine light
If the check engine light on your dashboard is on (but not flashing), it means you need to get it checked out as soon as possible. In most cases, you can continue driving to your home or shop without any issues. However, don’t wait too long to run a code to find out what’s wrong.
However, if the check engine light starts flashing, you have a serious problem. You should immediately stop your car in a safe place to have it repaired. Do not continue driving as it may cause permanent damage to the engine.
Common Causes of Check Engine Light Illumination
Some check engine light problems are simple, such as: B. A leaking or loose fuel cap. C. In other cases, the cause may be a faulty oxygen sensor, a dirty MAF sensor, an intake vacuum leak, a faulty catalytic converter, a fouled spark plug, a faulty ignition coil, a faulty battery, or a faulty alternator.
Let’s consider these possibilities.
1. Loose or leaking fuel cap
It may seem odd that the gas cap would cause the check engine light to come on, but this happens all the time. If the fuel cap doesn’t seal all the way, an EVAP leak can set the code. This issue can happen if the cap is cracked or if you forget to put the cap back on.
Also, filling up with fuel while the engine is running can set the code. The computer recognizes that the system is open, so a code is set. It is always a good idea to turn off the engine before opening the fuel cap. Gas stations also recommend this practice for safety reasons.
2. Faulty Oxygen Sensor
The oxygen sensor measures the air being exhausted by the engine and determines how much fuel to inject. If the oxygen sensor fails, the check engine light will come on.
Additionally, the air-fuel ratio will be unbalanced, resulting in reduced fuel consumption. This can also lead to poor performance. If you don’t replace the oxygen sensor and your car runs into a condition where the fuel is too rich, it can damage other components, such as the spark plugs and catalytic converter.
3. MAF sensor is dirty or faulty
The mass air flow sensor (MAF) is part of the fuel injection system. This sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine. It is also used to determine how much fuel needs to be injected.
Because of this, a faulty MAF sensor will cause many of the same symptoms as a faulty oxygen sensor. Chances are the sensor is simply dirty or contaminated and can be cleaned. If so, save up your money for a replacement.
4. Intake Vacuum Leak
Intake vacuum leaks can have a variety of causes. Your intake manifold could have a crack or the manifold gasket could be faulty. If you have a leak, you may hear strange engine noises like a whistling or hissing sound. In addition to black exhaust smoke, you may also suffer from misfiring or a misfire.
5. Faulty catalytic converter
Catalytic converters are designed to reduce harmful emissions into the atmosphere. Catalytic converters contain a catalyst that changes the composition of exhaust gases before they enter the air.
If your catalytic converter is faulty, the check engine light will turn on. If the converter is defective, you may not experience any performance issues, but your vehicle will not pass emissions testing.
6. Faulty Spark Plugs or Ignition Coils
Both spark plugs and ignition coils are needed to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the cylinders. Many car manufacturers recommend replacing spark plugs as part of their maintenance schedule to avoid failures.
In either case, you will find that many of the same systems fail. The engine may misfire, become sluggish, or experience reduced fuel consumption.
7. Battery or Alternator Failure
You need a battery to start your car’s engine. The alternator is responsible for charging your car’s battery while the engine is running. If the voltage starts to drop, the Check Engine Light will come on. On the other hand, you shouldn’t need a new generator that often. Most generators have a lifespan of seven years, or about 240,000 kilometers.
How to Fix the Check Engine Light
You don’t have to be a mechanic to turn off the check engine light. With a compatible scanner and some basic knowledge, you can solve the problem yourself. Here are some tips that can help you:
1. Read the error codes
You can use a compatible code scanner to read the DTCs to see what’s going on. Plug the scanner into the OBD-II port under the steering wheel.
If there are a lot of codes, you may need to clear them and restart the car. The light will come back on and show you the most common codes to investigate.
2. Research the Error Code
Error codes often consist of a letter and a series of numbers. Example: B.P0100. These error codes may be the same across all manufacturers or may be specific to only one manufacturer. Some error codes give a general description and require further investigation. In this case, use our online error code library for more guidance.
If you see multiple error codes, you can combine them to paint a clearer picture. For example, if two codes indicate an oxygen sensor fault, you probably won’t have to do much diagnostics to determine that one sensor is at fault.
3. Fix the problem
Once you know what the problem is, you can fix it. Of course, fixing the gas cap is easy, but some of the other problems can be more complicated.
You could replace the sensor, tweak it with new spark plugs, get a new catalytic converter, etc. Once you’ve fixed the problem, turn off the light.
4. Reset the codes and test drive
Now you can reconnect the scanner and reset the codes. Test drive the car to see if the issue is resolved. If the light stays off you can get started. Otherwise you need to move on to the next step.
5. Consult an Expert
If you have exhausted all your options, you may need to seek help. Even professional mechanics may need additional support from time to time. Find a qualified mechanic in your area. Asking local people for recommendations can also help.
Is it okay to drive with the check engine light on?
Do not continue driving if the check engine light is on. Even if the problem is simple, you won’t know if other parts are at fault while the light is on. However, if the check engine light starts to flash, you know the problem is serious and you shouldn’t continue driving.
What does it mean when the check engine light is on?
If your check engine light is on continuously, it could indicate an error detected by the computer. It could be something as small as a loose gas cap or a faulty catalytic converter. The only way to know for sure is to run the DTCs with a compatible code scanner. These error codes indicate the error the computer has detected.
How do you know if there is a problem with the Check Engine Light?
If the Check Engine Light is serious enough to cause engine failure within a few seconds, it should flash. However, it is also possible for the Check Engine Light to turn on to indicate a serious problem. Therefore, you should take the malfunction light seriously and use an OBD-II device to scan the computer.
Can the Check Engine Light ever go out on its own? The check engine light usually won’t go off on its own. Once you’ve made the necessary repairs, you’ll need to use a code scanner to reset the system. Even if the light isn’t flashing, have your car inspected as soon as possible. Fixing the problem promptly can prevent bigger problems down the road.
For example, even a simple spark plug change can lead to catalytic converter failure if neglected. Save money, take care of your car, and enjoy more adventures.