Why would my check engine light randomly come on?

The light could be a minor issue, such as a faulty gas cap, or it could mean something more serious, such as a misfiring engine. The check engine light — more formally known as the malfunction indicator lamp — is a signal from the car’s engine computer that something is wrong.

Can I drive my car with the service engine light on?

If the check engine light comes on while you’re driving, it can be unnerving. The check engine light means there’s a problem somewhere in your emissions system. Regardless, you’re safe to drive for now as long as the car isn’t performing strangely. Just have the check engine light checked and the problem repaired.

Can a blown fuse cause check engine light to come on?

Yes a fuse that controls an emissions device can be blown and cause a check engine light.

Can an overdue oil change cause check engine light?

Oil changes are essential maintenance for your car but it won’t do anything that could trigger your check engine light to come on. If you notice the light after an oil change, something else is wrong.

How serious is check engine light?

Your Check Engine Light may be indicating a simple problem that’s easy to fix—such as a loose gas cap that needs to be replaced. A flashing Check Engine Light indicates that your vehicle’s engine is in serious trouble, whereas a steadily lit one means less urgent service is needed.

How long can I drive with the service light on?

How long can you drive without an oil change after the oil change light comes on? After your car’s oil change light comes on, you should get the oil changed within the next two weeks. At most, once that light comes on, you should get the oil changed before the next 500 miles of driving.

How do you fix a check engine light?

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.

Where can I go if my check engine light is on?

Solving check engine light problems

Take your car to a mechanic and pay a diagnostic fee. Often, the fee is waived if you agree to have the necessary service performed at that garage.
Bring your car to an auto parts store and have the code read for free.
Buy an inexpensive scanner and read the code yourself.

Is there a fuse for the service engine light?

Yes , it is entirely possible for a fuse to cause a check engine light. And in those cases, multiple codes can set at once.

What fuse do I need to remove check engine light?

It’s a double fuse on the fuse box beneath the dash and reads ROOM/PLAFON. The light should automatically come on when you turn the ignition key to “ON” position and should go out when the engine comes on.

When to use service engine soon instead of check engine light?

Some manufacturers use the service engine soon light instead of the check engine light when there is just a minor problem with your car and not a severe problem. It could also mean that it is time for a scheduled service, such as oil or spark plug replacement.

How to reset the Check Engine light on your car?

How to Reset the Check Engine Light. 1 Drive Till it Turns Off. This is the easiest way. Your vehicle’s sensors will generally recheck the problem that led to the CEL. If you’ve fixed the 2 Turn the Car Off and On 3 Times. 3 Disconnect and Reconnect the Battery. 4 Use an OBD Reader.

What does a service light on your car mean?

A service light means that you need an oil change or other similar maintenance, bear in mind that if the light is ignored it can easily lead to a check engine light, as your engine will grind to a halt without oil.

Why does my check engine light not light up?

If your Check engine light is ON, the easiest way to diagnose this problem is to always check your trouble code memory with an OBD2 scanner. The check engine light will not light up if there is a scheduled service as the service engine soon light.

How do you check the Check Engine light?

Put your key in the ignition and switch the vehicle to “on.” Do not start the vehicle. Once the lights on the dash come on, turn off all the vehicle’s accessories, like the radio. Then, press the “read” button on the scanner to access the check engine light code.

What does the ‘ check engine soon ‘ light mean?

The Check Engine light — sometimes called the Service Engine Soon light or Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) — is the computer’s way of communicating with you. When the light comes on, it’s telling you it noticed a problem with the way the car’s operating. That problem may be something as simple as…

What does service engine light mean?

The Service (or Service Engine) light is a warning light that is connected to the engine control unit (ECU) of a vehicle. The ECU is the brain of the car and monitors a number of systems, including: Emissions: There are sensors throughout the engine management system on all cars manufactured since 1996…

Does AutoZone do Check Engine light?

AutoZone’s free check engine light service can help you identify problems by pulling up your engine’s error code and suggesting quality parts to repair that issue.