You are driving your car down the freeway, and everything seems to be fine. Then suddenly the Check Engine Light illuminates on the dashboard. When this issue occurs, it is important that you address this problem in a timely manner.
In this blog, we will take a look at what to do when your Check Engine Light comes on, some possible reasons for it, and most importantly, how to get the problem resolved.
What is the Check Engine Light?
Today’s vehicles are extremely intricate machines, with many onboard computers controlling all the vehicle’s complex operations.
When the Check Engine Light becomes illuminated it is a warning to the driver that the car’s onboard computers have detected a problem that a system in the vehicle is not performing as it should.
Your vehicle will also tell you the severity of the situation by illuminating the Check Engine Light in several different ways. A solid yellow light means that the issue at hand is not immediately urgent but should be addressed.
A flashing light is an indication that something is seriously wrong and requires immediate attention.
Anytime your Check Engine Light comes on it is very important to take your car to a qualified repair shop to diagnose the issue.
Top Reasons That Check Engine Lights Appear
Engine Issues
Various engine problems can trigger the Check Engine Light to come on. Whether it be low oil pressure, overheating, or drivability issues, the light is a warning that something is going on that should not be happening.
Transmission Problems
Your car’s transmission plays a critical role in its operation, as it transfers engine power to the wheels, so the vehicle can move. Some transmission issues are mechanical in nature, and others are electronic or computer related. Transmission problems may cause the Check Engine light to illuminate.
Emission System
Today’s modern cars are equipped with sophisticated emissions systems that are designed to minimize the amount of pollution a vehicle produces while in operation.
There are many sensors and other components that make up a car’s emission system. If any component stops performing as it should, the Check Engine Light will appear.
Overheating
Engines and transmissions produce a tremendous amount of heat as they drive down the road.
A car’s cooling system is designed to keep the vehicle’s operating temperature within the proper range. When this system develops an overheating problem, serious damage to the engine can result.
How Do You Resolve a Check Engine Light Problem?
Just as cars have many sophisticated on board computers today, modern repair shops invest in complex diagnostic equipment that is used to determine what is wrong with a vehicle, and the best strategy to fix it.
Highly trained technicians connect to a car’s computer system by using diagnostic equipment at the repair shop. Based on a wide variety of trouble codes and performance measurements, a technician can interpret the nature of a vehicle’s issue and decide how to properly repair it.
Once the proper repairs have been made, the technician can “clear” the Check Engine light and turn it off. Then the technician will take a test drive and ensure all systems are operating properly.
Car-X is Your One Stop Auto Repair Solution!
For more than 50 years, the pros at Car-X have helped our customers keep their vehicles on the road and operating at top performance. In our shops, we have the latest diagnostic equipment for most type of vehicles, and our experienced technicians receive specialized training on how to use it. Should you find yourself with a Check Engine light illuminated on your dashboard, be sure to visit your local Car-X repair shop today.
We will get you back on the road in no time! Click to request an appointment today.
