What does it mean when the Check Engine Light is on?
When the ECU senses something wrong, it indicates the problem through the check engine light. Check engine lights were invented with the purpose of making the jobs of professional mechanics a bit easier. But now, one can even figure out the problems indicated by the check engine light, without even going to a mechanic.
Can a code reader fix a check engine light?
Most code readers will allow you to turn off or reset the check engine light. But this action alone does not actually repair the underlying problem. In many cases, the light will simply come back on later.
How to read and understand check engine light ( OBD )?
You will need an OBD scan tool. The scanner allows you to communicate with the computer and retrieve the trouble codes. Certain scanners may give information on what the revealed code means, but most will just give a five digit number and letter combination. Follow these 4 steps to insert and read the OBD scanner:
Where is the connector for the Check Engine light?
The connector is usually located under the steering column and is relatively easy to access. Before 1996, carmakers had their own engine diagnostic systems, primarily to ensure their cars were compliant with EPA pollution control requirements. Check engine lights come in orange, yellow or amber,…
When the ECU senses something wrong, it indicates the problem through the check engine light. Check engine lights were invented with the purpose of making the jobs of professional mechanics a bit easier. But now, one can even figure out the problems indicated by the check engine light, without even going to a mechanic.
Most code readers will allow you to turn off or reset the check engine light. But this action alone does not actually repair the underlying problem. In many cases, the light will simply come back on later.
The connector is usually located under the steering column and is relatively easy to access. Before 1996, carmakers had their own engine diagnostic systems, primarily to ensure their cars were compliant with EPA pollution control requirements. Check engine lights come in orange, yellow or amber,…
What does a Amber check engine light mean?
Check Engine lights come in orange, yellow or amber, depending on the manufacturer. If the light begins flashing, however, it indicates a more serious problem, such as a misfire that can quickly overheat the catalytic converter.
What does a malfunction indicator light on a car mean?
In many cases, it means that you’ll be visiting the car dealer to repair the issue and get the light turned off. The check engine light — more formally known as the malfunction indicator lamp — is a signal from the car’s engine computer that something is wrong.
Check Engine lights come in orange, yellow or amber, depending on the manufacturer. If the light begins flashing, however, it indicates a more serious problem, such as a misfire that can quickly overheat the catalytic converter.
What does a check engine indicator light mean?
A check engine indicator is a malfunction-indicator light or MIL for the computer-management system. They use several computers to operate the various systems on modern vehicles. The power control module or PCM controls the engine and constantly tests each system that it monitors.
Why do check engine lights come on and go off?
What seems like a random occurrence of the MIL is logical, according to the way they program the vehicle. Once the MIL has come on, an issue is present, even if it goes back out. When the failed tests run again, the light will come back. What makes the MIL come on?
Is the service required light the same as the Check Engine light?
Some drivers may confuse the service required or maintenance required light on the gauge cluster for the check engine light. These warning lights are unrelated. The service required light just means the car is due for an oil change or other routine care. It is not an indicator of trouble like the check engine light is.
Why does my engine management light turn on?
Here are some of the most common problems that could cause your engine management light to turn on: A diesel particulate filter (DPF) is fitted to diesel-powered cars in order to trap soot from the exhaust and reduce your emissions.
What does the service required light on your car mean?
These warning lights are unrelated. The service required light just means the car is due for an oil change or other routine care. It is not an indicator of trouble like the check engine light is.
What causes a car engine light?
Possible causes of engine light on. Although we have stated two of the most common reasons why your car engine light comes on, there are other reasons that may also trigger this light to flicker: Faulty gas cap: When a gas cap turns faulty or goes missing, there could be a leakage in the emission system, which will turn the engine light on.
What does engine light look like?
The check engine light is generally amber or red in color, and has two stages, viz. a steady light and a flashing light. A steady light usually indicates minor problems, while the check engine light flashes only when there is a serious problem with your car.
What do the different engine lights mean?
On some cars, a yellow check engine light means investigate the problem and a red one means stop right now . Try tightening your gas cap. This can often solve the problem. Keep in mind that it may…
What does it mean if the Check Engine Light is flashing?
A flashing check engine light means that the problem occurs at the moment and it’s most likely a more serious problem like a misfire. It’s not recommended to drive with the check engine light flashing or ON. The problem is most likely a misfire, combustion or a faulty engine sensor problem.