Is The Service Engine Soon Light The Check Engine Light?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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The “Check Engine” light is a notification that something is wrong, the range can be anything from a loose gas cap to a faulty ignition coil. … The “Service Engine Soon” light

indicates that your vehicle is due for its next service maintenance

. The light comes on depending on your vehicles service interval.

What to check when your service engine soon light comes on?

A Service Engine Soon light typically illuminates in response to a minor engine/electrical issue. Some of these include a

loose gas cap, low fluid levels

, or a problem with the emissions system. Should anything not be operating as intended, such as something running too fast, too slow, too hot, or too cold.

Can I drive with service engine soon light on?

That having been said, you can probably drive safely with the service engine soon light on,

as long as it is on solid and not flashing

. If the service engine light is flashing, you should pull over immediately and call for roadside service and have the vehicle towed to the mechanic.

What does it mean when light says service engine soon?

The Check Engine/Service Engine Soon light comes on when there is

an emissions, ignition, fuel system or transmission related failure

. This light does not mean that you just need routine maintenance. … If the light is on solid, you’ll want to bring your vehicle in as soon as possible.

Is a service engine soon light the same as a check engine light?

The simplest explanation for the difference between a check engine light and service light is the

former indicates a major problem

and the latter indicates a need for maintenance or regularly scheduled service.

Does AutoZone check service engine soon light?

Does AutoZone Scan Check Engine Lights? AutoZone does. If your light is on, and you are wondering why, head down to your local AutoZone where one of

our store associates can help diagnose the issue through our free Fix Finder service

.

Can low oil cause service engine soon light?

Low oil pressure: If your car is low on oil,

it can cause your check engine light to go off

. This is often shown in its own glowing light along with the check engine light on the dashboard. Overheating: If your car’s engine temperature is heating up, it can once again trigger the check engine light.

Can service engine soon light mean oil change?

As a general rule,if the service engine soon light is on, this means that

your vehicle is due a routine service such as an oil change

or a filter change. … If the check engine light is flashing, then this usually means that there is something more serious wrong with your vehicle.

Is service engine soon bad?

The check engine and service engine soon lights are

an indication that something is wrong

. … The problem may be an engine misfire that could damage the catalytic converters. In the case of a blinking check engine light, it is strongly recommended that you have your vehicle serviced immediately.

How do you get my service engine soon light off?


Cycle ignition switch

to ON position and wait 1 minute, then start your vehicle. Check Engine Light or Service Engine Soon Light should be reset and turned OFF.

How do you check a service engine light?

  1. Look for a serious problem that requires immediate attention. Check your dashboard gauges and lights for indications of low oil pressure or overheating. …
  2. Try tightening your gas cap. …
  3. Reduce speed and load. …
  4. Use built-in diagnostic services, if available.

What is the most common reason for check engine light?

Oxygen Sensor

A faulty oxygen sensor will return a

check engine

warning every time. In fact, it’s one of the

most common reasons why

a

check engine light

comes on while you’re driving your automobile.

Where can I get my engine light checked for free?

  • Advance Auto Parts.
  • AutoZone.
  • Napa Auto Parts.
  • O’Reilly Auto Parts.
  • Pep Boys Auto Parts.

How bad is check engine light?

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

. … If the light begins flashing, however, it indicates a more serious problem, such as a misfire that can quickly overheat the catalytic converter.

Does AutoZone do free diagnostic?

Many drivers don’t realize that AutoZone, the nation’s largest auto parts chain, will do the following

services free of charge

: Read the codes on your check engine light. Test your battery’s voltage.

Can engine light come on for no reason?

Something as simple as

forgetting to replace the gas cap

could cause your “check engine” light to come on. … Faulty ignition – Spark plugs ignite the fuel as it flows through the engine’s cylinders. Failing to replace a spark plug could lead to catalytic converter failure or other serious problems.

Juan Martinez
Author
Juan Martinez
Juan Martinez is a journalism professor and experienced writer. With a passion for communication and education, Juan has taught students from all over the world. He is an expert in language and writing, and has written for various blogs and magazines.