What the Check Engine Light Could Mean

Every person who owns a car and saw the check engine light come on has groaned with the pain expecting an expensive repair bill. It can be unnerving when this light comes on, but there is no need to panic. In the certain times of the year, the severe weather that some areas experience can make being stranded very dangerous, especially for children. You should have some basic knowledge of the true purpose of this light and the possible meanings of its illumination so you can alert your mechanic.  

The Light, The Light!

The check engine light is an important part of the onboard diagnostics system in your car. Newer model cars are built with computers that monitor and control many facets of your car, such as the fuel ratio, performance of your engine, and the speed of the engine. It also monitors ignition timing and the automatic transmission if your car is equipped with one. Each problem that can occur has its own series of codes that are in the computer. When a problem occurs, the check engine light will light up and the computer generates a code that corresponds with the problem. Your mechanic can connect your car to their computer and read the code message so they can determine the issue. The light will illuminate for things as minor as a loose gas cap, worn out spark plugs and spark plug wires, malfunctioning oxygen sensor, to something more serious such as a blown gasket head. 

The Light is On, So What to Do?

If the check engine light comes on, you need pay attention to the behavior of the light because it does not always mean that you have a serious problem. When the light comes on, check to see if the light is blinking or remaining steady. A steady illumination could mean that you have a loose or missing gas cap, which you can easily replace or tighten back up. If this is the case, just tighten the cap until you hear an audible click. If it is missing, you will be able to find one at your local auto parts store. Keep your gas cap tightly closed because the vapors from the gas can escape. A blinking light could mean that you have a serious problem and you should take care of it immediately. This is when you should take it to a mechanic right away. If you are driving and you notice the light is blinking, you should pull over as soon as it is safe to do so and shut off your engine. 

General Car Maintenance Can Be a Preventative Measure

You should make sure that you keep your car maintained and perform a safety inspection on a regular basis. This is your best defense to keep from seeing this light. Maintenance can alert you to problems that could be forming and you can have them corrected before they turn into a major problem. The mechanic can help you devise a maintenance schedule that is recommended by the car manufacturer. Whether you have an Asian car model, a European car model, or a domestic car model, you can be sure that you will be safe and secure on the roads and you will not have to worry about the dreaded check engine light.