Nothing screams panic like seeing the check engine light suddenly appear on your dashboard. Why is it so frightening? Well, because the check engine light indicator could mean a variety of things, ranging from minor to severe. "It could be something as simple as a loose gas cap, to as serious as an internal engine problem" says Robert Corman, Service Director at Arrigo Automotive in West Palm Beach.
What could the check engine light mean?
There are sensors in your vehicle that monitor its systems. When those systems stop functioning correctly, the monitors alert the driver by showing the check engine light symbol on the dashboard. It's your car's way of letting you when something is wrong, says NerdWallet.
Some common problems associated with the check engine light are:
- Loose gas cap
- Evaporative emissions purge solenoid replacement
- Faulty oxygen sensor
- Catalytic converter and new OEM converter replacement
- An ignition coil or spark plug replacement
- Mass airflow sensor
- Thermostat replacement
- Fuel injectors replacement
- Evaporative emissions purge control valve replacement
According to Edmunds, check engine lights, depending on the manufacturer, can come in orange, yellow, or red. If the light comes on and stays, this could mean a number of problems. Drivers should take their car to a repair shop soon. If the check engine light symbol comes on and begins flashing, this means there is a severe problem. If you're on the road, Arrigo's Corman suggests pulling over to a safe place and contacting a service provider. "They may advise you to get your car towed to the nearest repair facility or tell you it's OK to drive it in for a diagnosis."
In some cases, the engine light will come on when nothing is wrong. Similar to your tire light appearing on the dashboard when temperatures drop, a change in the weather can cause the check engine light to do the same. After some time, it should disappear on its own. If not, take it to a dealership where it can be diagnosed. If no problems are found, they will reset it.
You should not ignore the check engine light
A recent study found that 29% of Americans admit to ignoring the check engine light for a month before finally getting it checked out. While 54% of Americans feel they can make a self-diagnosis of the issue, many don't know how to fix it.
No matter how big or small the problem is, it's best not to put off visiting your mechanic. Many people skip out on seeing a mechanic for fear of a high repair bill, but leaving your vehicle unchecked could lead to even costlier repairs if the problem was serious.
If your check engine light is on, you can have your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram or Fiat diagnosed for free by the visiting Arrigo service departments in West Palm Beach, Fort Pierce, Margate or Sawgrass.
