Can I drive if my check engine light just came on?
The check engine light is one of the most misunderstood indicators on your vehicle's dashboard. When it illuminates, it can cause immediate concern, but it doesn’t always mean you need to pull over right away. At Kevin's Autos, with years of experience in car maintenance and repair, we aim to help you understand what this light means and how to respond appropriately.
What Does the Check Engine Light Mean?
The check engine light is part of your car's onboard diagnostics system. It can illuminate for a variety of reasons, ranging from minor issues to serious problems. Common causes include:
- A loose or damaged gas cap
- Faulty oxygen sensors
- Issues with the catalytic converter
- Problems with spark plugs or ignition coils
- Malfunctioning mass airflow sensor
When the light comes on, your car's computer has detected an issue that needs attention. The severity of the problem can vary, so understanding how to proceed is crucial.
Can You Keep Driving?
Whether you can continue driving depends on the behavior of the check engine light:
- Solid Light: If the light is steady, it usually indicates a less urgent issue. You can continue driving, but it’s important to schedule a diagnostic check as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
- Flashing Light: A flashing check engine light signals a serious problem, such as a misfire that could damage the catalytic converter. In this case, you should stop driving immediately and have your car towed to a repair shop.
Ignoring the check engine light, even if it’s solid, can lead to more expensive repairs down the road. It’s always better to address the issue sooner rather than later.
Steps to Take When the Check Engine Light Comes OnAs the owner of Kevin's Autos auto service, I've seen countless customers come in with the dreaded check engine light illuminated on their dashboard. This warning light can be a source of stress and uncertainty for many drivers, leaving them wondering whether it's safe to continue driving or if they need to pull over immediately. In this article, I'll provide some guidance on how to handle a check engine light and whether you can still drive your vehicle.
What Does the Check Engine Light Mean?
The check engine light, also known as the malfunction indicator light (MIL), is a warning signal that your vehicle's onboard diagnostic system has detected a problem. This light can be triggered by a wide range of issues, from a loose gas cap to a more serious problem with the engine, transmission, or emissions system. The check engine light is designed to alert you to potential problems before they become more severe and costly to repair.
Can I Still Drive with the Check Engine Light On?
The short answer is: it depends. If the check engine light is flashing, it indicates a more serious problem that requires immediate attention. In this case, you should pull over as soon as it is safe to do so and have your vehicle towed to a reputable auto repair shop. Driving with a flashing check engine light can cause further damage to your vehicle's components and should be avoided.
If the check engine light is simply illuminated, but not flashing, you may be able to continue driving, but it's important to have the issue diagnosed and addressed as soon as possible. Driving with the check engine light on can lead to decreased fuel efficiency, increased emissions, and potentially more expensive repairs down the line if the underlying problem is not addressed.
What Should I Do If the Check Engine Light Comes On?
If your check engine light illuminates, here are the steps you should take:
- Check for any obvious issues: Look for a loose gas cap, check that all fluid levels are within the proper range, and ensure there are no visible signs of damage or leaks.
- Scan the diagnostic codes: Most auto parts stores or repair shops can use a diagnostic tool to read the trouble codes stored in your vehicle's computer. This can help identify the specific problem that triggered the check engine light.
- Schedule an appointment with a trusted mechanic: Once you have the diagnostic information, make an appointment with a reputable auto repair shop, like Kevin's Autos, to have the issue properly diagnosed and repaired.
- Drive cautiously: If the check engine light is not flashing, you can continue driving, but do so with caution, avoiding high speeds or heavy loads until the problem is addressed.
Remember, the check engine light is a warning sign that something is wrong with your vehicle. Ignoring it can lead to more serious and costly problems down the road. By addressing the issue promptly, you can help ensure the safety and longevity of your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
How urgent is a check engine light?
It could be a more significant problem that can wait a few days, but should be investigated at your earliest convenience. If the check engine light is flashing, you have a major problem, and you need to stop driving the vehicle as soon as possible.
Will a check engine light go off by itself?
Will your check engine light turn off by itself? In most cases, successfully repairing the issue that caused your light to come on will cause the check engine light to turn off automatically—but only after 10 to 20 “cycles”.
How long can you drive with a check engine light on?
50-100 miles
However, it is a warning sign that should be addressed in time to avoid any potential damage. The most common question we get is how long can you drive with check engine light on? The answer is it is safe to drive from 50-100 miles.
What is the first thing to check when the check engine light comes on?
Check your gas cap first. Many vehicles have a loose gas cap indicator that will be triggered before your check engine light comes on. 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.
Should I pull over if check engine light is on?
If you notice anything, pull over and turn off your engine as soon as you find a safe place to stop. This is especially true if your light flashes or turns red.
What do I do if my check engine light just came on?
Once you notice your check engine light has come on, pay attention to how the car is driving. Does something feel off? If so, reroute yourself to the nearest mechanic to get the car checked out. If the car seems to be running fine, you can check a few things on your own before heading to the mechanic.
Can I go to AutoZone for a check engine light?
You can use the Free AutoZone Fix Finder Service to get a complete report on your vehicle so you can fix the problem quickly and put your mind at ease.
How far do you have to drive to clear a check engine light?
around 50 to 100 miles
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. A cycle is a phase where you turn on the car and turn it off again. For other vehicles, you'll have to drive around 50 to 100 miles before it resets.
How serious is a solid check engine light?
A solid check engine light is what most people encounter and may signal a minor or more complex repair. You should address this warning as soon as possible — however, it doesn't pose an immediate threat to your vehicle unless something is noticeably wrong.
Why did my check engine light come out of nowhere?
It could pop on because of something minor like a loose or faulty gas cap. It could also mean a major engine failure. When the light comes on, the computer stores a “trouble code” that gives information about the source of the problem.
