Can I drive my car with the engine malfunction light on?
The short answer is that it is generally not recommended to drive your car with the engine malfunction light (also known as the check engine light) illuminated. The engine malfunction light indicates that there is an issue with your vehicle's emissions control system or engine that needs to be addressed.
What the Engine Malfunction Light Means
The engine malfunction light, or check engine light, is part of your vehicle's on-board diagnostics (OBD) system. When this light turns on, it means that the OBD system has detected a problem with one or more components related to your engine's emissions or performance. This could be something as simple as a loose gas cap or as serious as a malfunctioning catalytic converter.
Potential Risks of Driving with the Light On
- Increased Emissions: The engine malfunction light indicates an issue with your vehicle's emissions control system. Continuing to drive with the light on can lead to increased air pollution and may violate local environmental regulations.
- Reduced Fuel Efficiency: The problem causing the engine malfunction light can also lead to decreased fuel efficiency, costing you more money at the pump.
- Further Damage to the Vehicle: Ignoring the engine malfunction light can allow the underlying problem to worsen, potentially leading to more expensive repairs down the line.
It's important to have the issue diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible to avoid these potential consequences.
When It May Be Okay to Drive with the Light On
In some cases, it may be possible to drive your vehicle with the engine malfunction light illuminated, but this should be done with caution and only for a short distance to reach a repair shop. If the light is flashing, indicating a more serious problem, it's best to avoid driving the vehicle altogether and have it towed to a mechanic.
Diagnosing and Repairing the Issue
To diagnose and repair the issue causing the engine malfunction light, you'll need to have the vehicle's diagnostic trouble codes read by a mechanic or using an OBD-II scanner. These codes will provide information about the specific problem, allowing the mechanic to identify and fix the issue.
In summary, it's generally not recommended to drive your car with the engine malfunction light on, as it can lead to increased emissions, reduced fuel efficiency, and further damage to the vehicle. If the light is illuminated, it's best to have the issue diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible to ensure the safe and efficient operation of your vehicle.
What to do if the engine malfunction light comes on?
Your car's dashboard has a range of lights and notifications but the engine management light or EML is very important. All drivers who see the EML light should take their vehicle to a trusted local garage as soon as possible, or call for a mobile mechanic to carry out the necessary repairs.
How bad is it to drive with the check engine light on?
In most cases, driving with your check engine light on is OK, but it's important to take your vehicle in for a diagnostic check to resolve any issues before they become too serious. This is especially true if your light comes on and stays steady.
Can I still drive my car with a malfunction indicator light?
You may notice that other than the check engine light, your vehicle seems fully functional. Do not delay. Continuing to drive with the check engine light on can potentially cause serious damage and costlier repairs. Moreover, you will likely see diminished fuel efficiency and performance in your vehicle.
What is the first thing to check when the check engine light comes on?
The first thing that you should check when your engine light comes on is your gas cap. Get out of the car and check to see if your gas cap is loose or if it is cracked or damaged. If your gas cap is not on securely, you must ensure that you tighten it, or the light will just come on again.
Can low oil cause a check engine light?
Low Oil and Check Engine Light
However, low oil pressure, which can be caused by low oil levels, can be a reason for the check engine light to turn on. Low oil pressure can seriously interfere with your car's performance and disable your vehicle if not addressed immediately.
Is malfunction indicator light serious?
What is the MIL? A dashboard light that comes on when the vehicle's computer finds a problem that could cause excess pollution. Often this means you should repair your vehicle to avoid costly damage in the future. If the light is blinking or flashing, have your vehicle serviced at once.
How serious is a solid check engine light?
Depending on your car's make and model, a solid yellow or orange light may indicate lower severity. However, it's still a sign that you should make an appointment to diagnose and fix the problem. A flashing check engine light means you should take in your car ASAP.
What does the engine malfunction light indicate?
When your car's internal computer identifies a problem with the engine or transmission, it turns on the check engine light. The reasons for a check engine light turning on can range from something minor like a loose gas cap to something more serious like a faulty catalytic converter.
How long can you drive with an engine malfunction light?
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.
Does AutoZone check engine light for free?
We can help you get a reading yourself. Borrow an OBD reader to get a Check Engine Light reading with the AutoZone Free Fix Finder Service. It's a simple task that takes less than two minutes.
