We can all face it, life is busy sometimes, and because of that, we often ignore or put off things that we don’t think need immediate attention. If your check engine light has popped up on the dash, you are probably thinking about the ways you can avoid taking time out of your day to have it diagnosed and to have a possible issue fixed. Being without your vehicle is not ideal for anyone, so many people tend to look the other way when this little light comes up in their car, truck or SUV. Should you? Could you potentially be causing more harm to your vehicle? We are going to review some of the main reasons why you shouldn’t ignore the check engine light on your vehicle.
What is the Check Engine Light and What Does it Mean?
The check engine light on a vehicle, also known as the malfunction indicator lamp, is a signal from the car’s engine computer that something is wrong with the vehicle. This light usually appears on the instrument panel of most automobiles and typically says something like “CHECK ENGINE” or displays a symbol of an engine. When there is an issue, the check engine light will pop up on your dash in typically a yellow, orange, or red color.
The check engine light turns on when an issue is detected. A check engine light can be caused by various triggers and a blinking light usually means the issue is more urgent than a solid light. All vehicles are different, so you should leave it up to a professional automotive repair shop to determine the cause and help to solve the problem.
Why you Shouldn’t Ignore the Check Engine Light
According to Consumer Reports, “The customer is really, in the long run, potentially hurting their pocketbook by leaving that light on and ignoring it,” says Jim Collins, a national training team leader for Ford Motor Co.
The entire purpose of this signal is to let the vehicle owner know that there is an issue, which is exactly why you shouldn’t ignore the check engine light. The longer you let the problem or issue go, the bigger it may get, and no one wants to end up with their car just stopping on them, and leaving them stranded.
Some common reasons that this indicator light may illuminate your dash, include:
- Faulty or Loose Gas Cap
- Internal Engine Problem
- Issue with the Catalytic Converter
- Malfunctioning Oxygen Sensor
- Worn Spark Plugs and Wires
- Damaged Mass Airflow Sensor
- Bad Gas
Once you notice this light has come on, pay attention to how the vehicle is driving. Does something feel off? You shouldn’t ignore the check engine light, because while it may be an easy issue to resolve like a loose gas cap, it could also be a much larger problem, and the more you drive, the more damage you cause, ultimately creating a more expensive repair.
While a check engine light appearing is undeniable, it is usually hard for vehicle owners to easily identify what has caused the light to suddenly appear. Your check engine light can turn on for various reasons; however, they all mean that there is an issue with your vehicle and you should get to your local Phoenix service center as soon as possible.
Advanced Transmissions & Emissions specializes in transmission repair, transmission rebuilding, and transmission remanufacturing. We are also your Phoenix, AZ service team for all your other automotive repair needs from clutch issues, AC repair, steering problems, and more. We are a full service auto mechanic repair shop. If your check engine light is on we offer a free diagnostic check while you wait. Contact us today.
