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The check engine light illuminates when your vehicle’s computer believes there is a problem that could affect — or is affecting — your car’s emissions control system. When the light comes on, one or more diagnostic trouble codes are stored in the car’s computer. These lights illuminate when a routine service is due.
What is the most common cause of check engine light?
Replacing a faulty oxygen sensor — a sensor used to optimize a vehicle’s fuel-to-air mixture to increase gas mileage and reduce emissions — is the most common cause for a check engine light. With over 400,000 repairs nationwide, oxygen sensor replacements account for 8% of all check engine light repairs.
Is it safe to drive with 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.
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.
Can engine light come on for no reason?
The check engine light can come on for many reasons. For example, something as simple as a loose gas cap can trigger the warning. And major problems, such as failed internal engine components, can turn on the light, as well.
When should I be worried about check engine light?
Unlike a Temperature or Oil Pressure light, a Check Engine light is usually not an urgent, “Stop right now or you may cause permanent damage!” type of situation, unless it is flashing. If your gas cap is loose or the seal is not tight, the vapor leakage can cause your fuel system to trigger the check engine light.
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.
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.
How much does it cost to get engine light checked?
There’s a lot that goes on inside your engine, and rooting out the problem and fixing it can be a costly proposition. How costly? On average, the fee to have an auto mechanic diagnose a check engine light is $100.
Will check engine light reset itself?
Your car’s check engine light will reset itself after you repair the problem in most car models. But it may take some time. A car usually needs 10-20 successful cycles before it will reset the check engine light by itself. Therefore it’s much easier to reset the check engine light with an OBD2 scanner.
Will a dealership buy my car if the check engine light is on?
Most dealerships will use the check engine light malfunction as an excuse to pay you less than the car may be worth. Be ready for a very low offer for the trade in. Your research will show the dealer you will not be taken advantage of.
Can needing an oil change cause check engine light to come on?
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.
Can Autozone reset check engine light?
Wondering if the local Autozone can turn off a check engine light? The answer is yes, but… there are a couple things to remember: Local auto parts stores will typically offer to read your codes for free, but not all locations will clear the light due to liability issues.
How long does a check engine light take to reset?
The Light Stays On You may think that there is still a problem with the car after the repair, but it’s because the light needs time to reset. The car’s internal computer only resets after a set period where it checks all of its sensors once more. The reset can happen automatically after around 10 to 20 cycles.
What should you not say to a car salesman?
10 Things You Should Never Say to a Car Salesman “I really love this car” “I don’t know that much about cars” “My trade-in is outside” “I don’t want to get taken to the cleaners” “My credit isn’t that good” “I’m paying cash” “I need to buy a car today” “I need a monthly payment under $350”.
How much does it cost to reset check engine light?
The national average repair cost linked to a car or truck’s check engine light now stands at $357, including parts ($216) and labor ($141).
