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.
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! Pay attention and see if the car is driving any differently than normal.
When should I be worried about 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.
What do you do when the check engine light comes on?
What to Do About the Check Engine Light
- Look for a serious problem that requires immediate attention. Check your dashboard gauges and lights for indications of low oil pressure or overheating. …
- Try tightening your gas cap. …
- Reduce speed and load. …
- Use built-in diagnostic services, if available.
How long can you drive with a check engine light on?
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.
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.
Where can I get my engine light checked for free?
At a local auto parts store
- Advance Auto Parts.
- AutoZone.
- Napa Auto Parts.
- O’Reilly Auto Parts.
- Pep Boys Auto Parts.
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.
Why is my check engine light on but no codes?
Generally if the light is coming on and no codes are stored the processor that triggers the light is faulty or the circuit is shorted to power. disconnect that circuit from the ECU if the light goes off probably an issue with the ECU, if the light stays on look for a short to power on that circuit.
How much does it cost to get engine light checked?
The average cost for a Check Engine Light Diagnosis & Testing is between $88 and $144 but can vary from car to car.
Does AutoZone do free diagnostic?
Many drivers don’t realize that AutoZone, the nation’s largest auto parts chain, will do the following services free of charge: Read the codes on your check engine light. Test your battery’s voltage.