The 101 On Your Check Engine Light

A car may seem like it’s on the bottom of your list of things to worry about, but one tiny light could mean difference between getting to work on time and not being able to get your car to move at all. Car care is essential, but even with the best of care, things are bound to happen. So, here’s the 101 on what to do if your “check engine” light comes on.

Don’t ignore it. Even if your car’s “check engine” light is always on, it’s best to get it looked at. It could be something as small as a broken sensor or it could mean that there are multiple components in your car that are no longer working. If you want to improve the longevity of your vehicle, it’s best to care of any potential problems as soon as possible.

Is the light flashing, yes or no? If the light isn’t flashing, then the issue is probably not an emergency. However, if your “check engine” light is flashing, chances are there’s something that needs immediate attention. For instance, a backfiring catalytic converter.

Test the gas cap. Everything is computerized. A loose gas cap can send an error message through your car and trigger the “check engine” light due to a potential “leak”. Same can be said for drastic chances in weather, including intense humidity.

Take it in. When in doubt, take your car in to get checked. Mechanics and Auto Body shops have a tool that reads what specific parts are forcing your “check engine” light to come on. They can pin point it down to its exact location. So, after you’ve fiddled around with the spark plugs, checked your oil and twisted the gas cap once more, and you find that the lights still on, chances are you should take it to a professional.

Essentially, don’t expect the problem to go away. Much like a doctor’s appointment, you don’t have to be deathly ill to schedule a visit. If something doesn’t feel right, you see your doctor. If your car is acting strange or the “check engine” light comes on, you take it to a mechanic. And always, always, always make sure your insurance is up-to-date. It could mean the difference of pushing your car 12 miles to the nearest garage or calling a tow to the garage of your choice.