This Little Light of Mine: The Check Engine Light

A check engine light can be one of the most frustrating and confusing things to see while you're driving. It's a warning that something is wrong with your vehicle, but it doesn't give you any specific information about the problem. In this blog post, we'll take a look at what a check engine light is, what causes it to turn on, and what you should do if you see it.

First, let's talk about what a check engine light is. The check engine light is a warning that is displayed on the dashboard of your vehicle. It's usually a yellow or orange color, and it is usually located near the speedometer. The light will turn on when the vehicle's onboard computer detects a problem with one of the vehicle's systems. The problem could be something as simple as a loose gas cap, or it could be something more serious like a malfunctioning catalytic converter.

The check engine light is triggered by a sensor that is located in the vehicle's engine. These sensors are designed to monitor various systems in the vehicle, such as the engine, transmission, and emissions systems. If a sensor detects a problem, it will send a signal to the onboard computer, which will then turn on the check engine light.

It's important to note that a check engine light can turn on for a variety of reasons, some of which are more serious than others. A loose gas cap, for example, is a relatively minor issue that can be easily fixed. However, a malfunctioning catalytic converter is a more serious issue that will require the attention of a mechanic.

If your check engine light turns on, the first thing you should do is try to figure out what the problem is. One way to do this is to use a code reader, which is a device that can read the diagnostic codes that are stored in the vehicle's computer. These codes can give you a general idea of where the problem is coming from.

Once you have the codes, you can look them up online or bring your car into our service depsrtment to be diagnosed. We can tell you what the problem is and what needs to be done to fix it. If the problem is something minor, you may be able to fix it yourself. However, if the problem is more serious, it's best to take bring your vechile into our service department.

It's important to keep in mind that a check engine light is a warning that something is wrong with your vehicle. Ignoring the light can lead to more serious problems and costly repairs. If you see the light turn on, take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible to have it checked out.

In conclusion, a check engine light can be a frustrating and confusing warning. It's important to take it seriously and have it checked out as soon as possible. By understanding what causes the light to turn on, and what you can do to fix the problem, you can keep your vehicle running smoothly and avoid costly repairs.