What to do When the “Check Engine” Light Comes On?
Have you been on your way to work or another important event when you notice a little yellow warning light illuminate on the dash panel? Do you know what to do if the check engine light comes on while you’re driving? How do you know for sure that permanent damage isn’t taking place in the engine and that the safety of your vehicle is not compromised? As soon as possible, take your vehicle to your auto shop for a diagnostic test to find out if there is a problem requiring engine repair. This little light may simply indicate a malfunctioning sensor, or it could be something more serious, such as low oil pressure.
Most all of today’s modern vehicles have a computer on board. When the electronic control system finds a problem it cannot adjust, this computer turns on the warning light and stores a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) in its memory. This code helps your mechanic pinpoint the source of a potential problem, from a loose gas cap to a misfiring engine.
Here is what to do when the “Check Engine” light comes on:
- Check the Gas Cap – Take it off and then re-tighten it. If the cap is loose or cracked, fuel vapors leak out and can throw the whole fuel system off, reducing gas mileage and increasing toxic emissions.
- Slow Down – Reduce the strain on the engine until you can get the cause of the check engine light checked out.
- Reduce the Weight – If you’re pulling a heavy trailer or the trunk is loaded, the engine is probably working harder than it is designed for.
If the “check engine” light on your dashboard remains lit after following the above suggestions, schedule a diagnostic test as soon as possible. Your mechanic will know how to read the “trouble code” to find the source of the problem. If there is damage occurring in the engine, you may find yourself looking at a costly engine repair.
Wondering what to do is the check engine light comes on? Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Phil’s Service today for more information about our engine repair services and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in the community of Killeen, TX, and the surrounding area.
Wondering what to do if the check engine light comes on? Ask your mechanic to run a diagnostic test to pinpoint a problem and see if engine repair is needed.
Have you been on your way to work or another important event when you notice a little yellow warning light illuminate on the dash panel? Do you know what to do if the check engine light comes on while you’re driving? How do you know for sure that permanent damage isn’t taking place in the engine and that the safety of your vehicle is not compromised? As soon as possible, take your vehicle to your auto shop for a diagnostic test to find out if there is a problem requiring engine repair. This little light may simply indicate a malfunctioning sensor, or it could be something more serious, such as low oil pressure.
Most all of today’s modern vehicles have a computer on board. When the electronic control system finds a problem it cannot adjust, this computer turns on the warning light and stores a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) in its memory. This code helps your mechanic pinpoint the source of a potential problem, from a loose gas cap to a misfiring engine.
Here is what to do when the “Check Engine” light comes on:
- Check the Gas Cap – Take it off and then re-tighten it. If the cap is loose or cracked, fuel vapors leak out and can throw the whole fuel system off, reducing gas mileage and increasing toxic emissions.
- Slow Down – Reduce the strain on the engine until you can get the cause of the check engine light checked out.
- Reduce the Weight – If you’re pulling a heavy trailer or the trunk is loaded, the engine is probably working harder than it is designed for.
If the “check engine” light on your dashboard remains lit after following the above suggestions, schedule a diagnostic test as soon as possible. Your mechanic will know how to read the “trouble code” to find the source of the problem. If there is damage occurring in the engine, you may find yourself looking at a costly engine repair.
Wondering what to do is the check engine light comes on? Contact our ASE Certified technicians at Phil’s Service today for more information about our engine repair services and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in the community of Killeen, TX, and the surrounding area.
