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.
What do you do when your malfunction indicator lamp is on?
The Malfunction Indicator lamp should come on
when you crank the car
, and should go out within a few seconds after conducting a self-test. If it stays on or comes on while driving, it means there's a code in the computer that needs to be checked. a misfire and you need to have it inspected as soon as possible.
Can I drive with the malfunction indicator lamp on?
Drive moderately until the dealer has inspected the problem. … You should also have the dealer inspect your car if this indicator comes on repeatedly, even though it may turn off as you continue driving. If you keep driving with the malfunction indicator lamp on,
you can damage your car's emissions controls and engine
.
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.
How do I reset my malfunction indicator light?
How do I reset my malfunction indicator light? Another simple approach to get rid of the check engine light is
to turn on and off the car three times
. Insert the key in the ignition, turn the car on for a second, and turn it off for another second. Repeat this process three times.
How long can you drive with malfunction indicator light?
When the check engine light is solid, you can typically drive the car for
hundreds of miles without
an issue. Of course, that depends on which code is stored in the vehicle's computer. If an engine sensor is faulty, the car will usually use made up sensor values to keep running.
How long can I drive with check engine light flashing?
Flashing Check Engine Light
The rule of thumb is that if the check
engine light is flashing, you can't keep driving the car
. It's an emergency. Often it indicates an engine misfire. If you keep driving, you will likely cause irreversible damage, mostly to the (expensive) catalytic converter.
How serious is a malfunction indicator lamp?
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.
What causes emission control system malfunction?
Missing, damaged, or incorrect
fuel cap
– An improperly fitted or broken fuel cap is the most common cause of an OBD code P0440 being triggered. … Disconnected or punctured EVAP system hoses – Over time, your car's EVAP hoses may get brittle and become damaged, allowing fuel vapors to leak.
What does malfunction warning mean?
A
check engine light
or malfunction indicator lamp (MIL), is a tell-tale that a computerized engine-management system uses to indicate a malfunction. … This warning light can indicate almost anything from a loose gas cap to a serious knock in the engine.
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.
Can low oil cause the check engine light to come on?
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.
What does a solid check engine light mean?
If the engine light comes on solid, it may still be a reason for concern, however it doesn't immediately need to strike fear in your heart. A solid Check Engine Light can mean
something like a loose gas cap
, or it can indicate a more in-depth problem like a fuel, timing, or transmission issue.
How do I check my malfunction indicator light?
The only way to find out what's wrong with the car is
to plug in a OBD2 scantool
. The tool and accompanied software can read the Diagnostic Trouble Code(s) from the system. Every time the OBD system turns on the MIL light, it will also store a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) in the electronic control unit.
How long do you have to drive to reset engine light?
To make sure the check engine light does not reappear, it's recommended that you drive your car
30 to 100 miles
. This enables the vehicle's “Drive Cycle” to reset, as the various sensors need time to recalibrate.
Will check engine light reset itself?
Your vehicle's check engine light
will will reset by itself once the issue or problem has been repaired
; this is true for most models. … A vehicle cycle is when you start your vehicle and drive it till it warms up, and then you turn the car off.
