Can I drive with the maintenance required light on?
The short answer is that it is generally not recommended to drive with the maintenance required light on. The maintenance required light is an indicator that your vehicle needs some form of maintenance or service, and ignoring it can lead to more serious problems down the road. However, the severity of the issue can vary, and in some cases, it may be possible to continue driving for a short period of time.
What Does the Maintenance Required Light Mean?
The maintenance required light, also known as the service engine soon light or check engine light, is a warning indicator that is illuminated on your vehicle's dashboard when the onboard computer detects an issue with the vehicle's systems. This light can be triggered by a wide range of problems, from a loose gas cap to more serious issues like a malfunctioning catalytic converter or engine problems.
Potential Consequences of Driving with the Light On
Driving with the maintenance required light on can have several potential consequences, including:
- Increased fuel consumption: The issue that triggered the light may be causing your vehicle to run less efficiently, leading to decreased fuel economy.
- Damage to engine components: Ignoring the light can allow the underlying problem to worsen, potentially leading to more expensive repairs or even engine damage.
- Emissions issues: Some maintenance required lights are triggered by problems with the vehicle's emissions system, which can lead to increased pollution and potential legal issues in some areas.
- Inability to pass inspections: In many states, vehicles must pass emissions tests or other inspections, and a maintenance required light may cause the vehicle to fail these tests.
It's important to note that the severity of the issue can vary, and in some cases, it may be possible to continue driving for a short period of time without causing significant damage. However, it's always best to have the issue diagnosed and addressed as soon as possible.
What to Do If the Maintenance Required Light Is On
If the maintenance required light is illuminated on your dashboard, the best course of action is to have the issue diagnosed and addressed as soon as possible. This typically involves the following steps:
- Scan the vehicle's onboard computer: Many auto parts stores or repair shops can use a diagnostic tool to read the trouble codes stored in the vehicle's computer, which can help identify the underlying issue.
- Perform necessary repairs: Once the issue has been identified, the necessary repairs should be made to address the problem and turn off the maintenance required light.
- Reset the light: After the repairs have been made, the maintenance required light may need to be manually reset, either by the repair shop or by following the instructions in your vehicle's owner's manual.
By addressing the issue promptly and following the recommended maintenance schedule, you can help ensure the long-term health and performance of your vehicle.
How long can I drive with my maintenance required light on?
In general, a flashing oil light will turn into a serious problem after around 2 weeks or 500 miles of driving. However, once it reaches that stage, things can quickly deteriorate, resulting in catastrophic mechanical damage. As a result, schedule an appointment with a mechanic as soon as possible.
How many miles can I drive after the oil light comes on?
If your oil light comes on, you should try to have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. Note, though, that driving around a bit more won't destroy anything. Generally speaking, you have about 2 weeks or 500 miles of driving before a flashing oil light turns into a legitimate problem.
How urgent is a maintenance required light?
A maintenance light means you should plan to book service at a dealership or repair shop soon. Although it's not a good idea to stretch the interval too far, you can generally schedule the required maintenance when it's most convenient without worrying about your car's health.
What happens if you don't reset maintenance light?
Ignoring this light may seem harmless, but doing so could lead to gradual engine wear, reduced performance and even severe engine damage over time. As such, your oil change light is a necessary guardian of your vehicle's health and shouldn't be dismissed.
What happens if you ignore maintenance required?
Delaying Service Can Cause Bigger Issues
This is a quick and inexpensive service, but if you delay it, you're risking damage to your engine. Engine damage is a much larger mechanical problem and could keep your car off the road for much longer.
Will maintenance light come on if oil is low?
While low oil levels can affect engine performance, it is a common misconception that low oil levels will cause the check engine light to come on. In reality, the low oil level has its own dedicated dashboard icon, resembling a tiny oil can.
Is the maintenance required light serious?
Many drivers confuse the maintenance required light with the check engine light (CEL). While they look similar, though, they aren't the same. The maintenance required light doesn't indicate a problem with your vehicle; it only means that you've driven for at least 4,500 miles since the last time it was reset.
What happens if you skip maintenance?
Decreased Performance, Efficiency and Safety
Skipping regular service can risk your safety and diminishes your car's performance and efficiency. Tires are your car's only contact with the road, so their condition is crucial, while well-maintained brakes are essential for safe driving.
Is the maintenance required light only for oil change?
Many drivers believe the light only signals the need for an oil change. This is a common misconception. The light can indicate a variety of service needs, not just an oil replacement. Ignoring it might lead to bigger issues.
Can I drive with the engine maintenance light on?
Overall, you do not want to drive around with an illuminated or flashing Check Engine Light, even if the problem is minor, like a loose air filter. You do not want to take the chance and risk adding more costly damages to your vehicle.
