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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 could cause the check engine light to come on?
A problem with either your spark plug wires or the spark plugs themselves could cause your check engine light to come on. Ignoring this problem may lead to a clogged catalytic converter, damaged ignition coils, or problems with your oxygen sensor.
Is it safe to drive your car with the check engine light on?
Can you drive a car with the engine light on? It’s okay to drive for a few miles, but be sure to schedule an inspection of the engine as soon as possible. If the check engine light comes on while you’re driving, don’t panic! Just be sure to have your car inspected as soon as possible after the light turns on.
What does a solid yellow check engine light mean?
The steady yellow light is telling you to take a look and fix the minor issue as soon as you can, but it’s not usually serious. The flashing light means that your vehicle’s engine is misfiring and you should investigate the problem immediately.
Why is my engine light on but nothing seems wrong?
Normally, the appearance of a check engine light indicates a problem somewhere in your vehicle, but nothing seems amiss. The problem can even be as simple as forgetting to tighten your gas cap – in fact, this is the most common reason why check engine lights appear in the first place.
How serious is check engine light?
Both a solid and flashing engine check light indicates that a problem has been detected. However, a flashing engine check light indicates that it is a serious problem that requires your immediate attention. If you see a flashing light, it’s best to contact a mechanic as soon as possible to prevent serious damage.
How many miles can you drive with check engine light on?
In general, you will need to drive between 50-100 miles after you clear your car’s computer. Hopefully, this will get rid of the check engine light once and for all. If it doesn’t, there may be a more critical factor causing this item to turn on.
Can AutoZone check engine light?
Does AutoZone Scan Check Engine Lights? AutoZone can diagnose Check Engine Light codes, yes. If your engine light turned 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.
What does orange engine light mean?
A flashing orange light means that there is a problem that could affect how the car drives or handles, such as an engine misfire. You might be able to feel your car shake, or the engine could suddenly sound different. If this light comes on, you should take your car to be serviced immediately.
How long can you ignore check engine light?
You should drive your car 30 to 100 miles in order to ensure that the check engine light does not reappear. As the sensors need time to calibrate, the vehicle’s “Drive Cycle” can be reset.
What does the stop engine light mean?
Red Stop Engine Lamp Indicates that engine must be stopped as soon as it is safe to do so. Flashing Red Stop Engine Lamp Indicates driver has 30 seconds to stop vehicle safely before automatic engine shutdown (if the Engine Protection Shutdown feature is enabled).
How long does check engine light stay off after reset?
So why is the light still on? Here’s something you probably don’t know: after clearing the car’s computer you will need to drive for about 50 to 100 miles. As you drive your car the computer will monitor all the sensors and register the results.
Will check engine light come on for oil change?
Your Car Needs an Oil Change An illuminated check engine light is the first warning sign that your vehicle needs an oil change. It can activate because the oil is too dirty or when there’s not enough flowing throughout the engine. If it’s dark, black in color, or too low, schedule an oil change today.
How do I check my check engine light?
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide: Step 1: Turn The Ignition Key. Switch ON and OFF the ignition key without running the engine. Step 2: Check Your Dashboard. Right after the dash lights come up, they’ll turn off, except one—usually the service engine light. Step 3: Note And Interpret The Check Engine Codes.
Will engine light come on if coolant is low?
A low coolant level in the radiator of your car can cause the malfunction illumination light (MIL), also known as the “check engine” light, to appear. In low coolant, the engine’s internal temperature can be affected, as antifreeze protects it.
Can engine light mean transmission?
Transmission problems can cause the check engine light to come on as well, however it’s not always as apparent as other components within the vehicle. If there is a transmission issue, this equipment will be able to target where the problem originated, and then supply an error code to help identify the problem.
