How far can I drive after the check engine light comes on?

Normally, you should not drive far after the check engine light appears. A steady light may allow a short trip to a repair shop or home, but a flashing light means you should pull over immediately and arrange roadside assistance. The exact distance you can safely drive depends on the fault and how the car is behaving, so treat the warning as a signal to diagnose the issue promptly.

What the check engine light means

The check engine light (CEL or MIL) is triggered when the vehicle’s onboard computer detects a fault that could affect emissions, performance, or fuel economy. The underlying cause can range from a simple, inexpensive fix to something that could cause engine damage if ignored. Diagnosing the fault with an OBD-II scanner or a professional scan is the right next step.

These are common causes behind a CEL, varying in urgency and potential damage if ignored:

• Loose or missing gas cap


• Ignition problems: spark plugs, coils


• Mass airflow sensor or oxygen sensor failures


• Faulty catalytic converter or exhaust system issues


• Fuel delivery or injector problems


• Vacuum leaks or intake system issues


• Sensor or computer faults that can affect performance

While some causes are minor and harmless for a short drive, others can lead to reduced fuel efficiency, rough running, or more serious engine damage. The safe approach is to have the code read and diagnosed promptly.

Is it safe to drive right now?

Steady light

A steady CEL means a fault has been detected but does not necessarily require emergency stopping. Your driving distance should be limited and you should plan to get a diagnostic scan soon. Avoid long highway trips and heavy loads until you know the issue.

Recommended steps if the light is steady:

• Check for obvious issues like a loose gas cap and reseat it securely.


• Review the owner’s manual for manufacturer guidance.


• Limit driving to a nearby repair shop or home; schedule a diagnostic scan as soon as possible.


• Note any symptoms such as rough idle, misfire, hesitation, or reduced power.

By following these precautions, you can minimize risk and ensure a prompt diagnosis and repair after the light appears.

Flashing light or severe symptoms

A flashing CEL indicates a severe misfire or another critical fault that can cause rapid catalyst damage or engine failure. In this case, you should pull over safely at the earliest opportunity, turn off the engine, and seek roadside assistance or a tow to a repair facility. Do not drive long distances.

Immediate actions you should take:

• Find a safe place to stop, away from traffic, and turn off the engine.


• Check for overheating, unusual smoke, or strong fuel smells. If present, call for help immediately.


• Do not drive the vehicle more than necessary to reach a safe location; arrange towing if needed.


• Have the vehicle scanned and repaired before resuming normal driving.

Driving with a flashing light increases the risk of breaking down or causing further damage, so prioritizing a tow and professional diagnosis is essential.

Distance considerations: how far is safe?

There is no universal mileage limit for a car with a CEL. The safe driving distance depends on the fault, the car’s health, and how it’s driving. If the car runs normally and you are near a repair shop, you can drive there for a diagnostic. If you notice loss of power, rough running, overheating, or any warning of severe issues, avoid driving and seek assistance.

In most cases, plan to minimize driving and arrange a diagnostic soon rather than attempting a long trip.

Practical steps to take now

Regardless of whether the light is steady or flashing, you should act promptly to diagnose the issue rather than hoping it will go away.

• Use an OBD-II scanner if you have one to read the trouble code.


• Document symptoms, last fueling, and changes in performance or economy.


• Schedule a diagnostic appointment with a qualified mechanic or dealer.


• Avoid unnecessary driving and consider roadside assistance for longer trips.

These steps help you identify whether you can safely reach a shop or if you should delay driving until repairs are completed.

Summary

The check engine light signals a fault detected by the vehicle’s computer. The seriousness varies from a harmless issue like a loose gas cap to a serious misfire that can damage the engine or catalytic converter. A steady light often permits a short drive to a repair facility with caution, but a flashing light requires stopping immediately and seeking assistance. There is no fixed distance you can safely drive; the appropriate action depends on the fault and the car’s behavior. Prioritize diagnostic testing and timely repair to prevent further damage and costly repairs.

If in doubt, err on the side of caution: don’t press your luck with a mystery fault—have the vehicle checked as soon as possible.

Can a check engine light go away by itself?

Yes, a check engine light can clear itself if the underlying issue is resolved, but it won't happen immediately. The light typically goes off after a few driving cycles—where the car is started and driven for a certain distance—if the computer no longer detects the problem. For example, a loose gas cap can trigger the light, and after it's tightened, the light may turn off on its own after some driving.
 
How it works

• The vehicle's computer monitors various sensors to detect issues. 
• A minor or temporary fault, like a loose gas cap, can trigger the light. 
• If you fix the problem (e.g., tighten the cap), the computer will continue to monitor the system. 
• Once the vehicle has completed a certain number of "drive cycles" (a specific combination of driving and stopping), the computer will recognize the issue is gone and turn the light off automatically. 

This video explains how to reset a check engine light using several DIY methods: 1mAuto EducateYouTube · Apr 14, 2025
What to do if the light comes on

• Check the gas cap: This is a very common and easy fix. Remove it and re-tighten it until it clicks. Then, drive for a while to see if the light turns off. 
• Drive and wait: If the issue was temporary (e.g., a brief sensor reading out of range), the light may go off on its own after a few days or about 30–50 miles of driving. 
• Get the codes read: You can buy an inexpensive OBD-II scanner to read the specific trouble code that is causing the light. Many auto parts stores also offer this service for free. This will tell you exactly what the problem is. 

Important note

• If the check engine light comes back on, even after it had gone off, it indicates the problem is still there and needs to be addressed professionally. 
• If the light is flashing, it indicates a severe misfire, and you should pull over and have the vehicle towed to a mechanic. 

How long can I drive with my check engine light on?

You can drive a short distance with a steady check engine light if the car is running normally, but a flashing light means you should stop immediately and seek professional help. A steady light may indicate a minor issue like a loose gas cap, but a flashing light signals a serious problem like a misfire that can quickly damage the catalytic converter. 
This video explains the different scenarios where you can or cannot drive with the check engine light on: 55sAuto V Fix YouTube · Nov 10, 2022
If the light is steady

• Drive with caution: It's generally safe to drive a short distance to a repair shop, especially if there are no other symptoms. 
• Limit long trips: Avoid driving for extended periods or under heavy load, as the problem could worsen. 
• Check the gas cap: Before anything else, make sure your gas cap is on tightly, as this is a common and simple fix that may turn the light off after a few driving cycles. 
• Monitor performance: Pay attention to any changes in how your car drives, such as loss of power, strange noises, or decreased fuel efficiency. 

If the light is flashing

• Pull over immediately: A flashing light indicates a severe misfire that can cause expensive damage to the catalytic converter, so do not drive further than a few miles, if at all. 
• Avoid driving: Continuing to drive can lead to significant and costly repairs. 
• Seek immediate professional assistance: Get the vehicle towed to a mechanic as soon as possible. 

This video explains the potential damage caused by ignoring a flashing check engine light: 1mAuto V Fix YouTube · Jun 25, 2022

How many miles to drive to clear a check engine light?

You need to drive 50 to 100 miles to complete the necessary drive cycle for the check engine light to reset on its own after the underlying problem is fixed. This process allows the vehicle's computer to recalibrate its sensors and confirm the issue has been resolved. 
This video explains how long you can drive with the check engine light on: 57sJerry aiYouTube · Nov 6, 2022
Why driving is necessary

• Sensor recalibration: After a code is cleared, the car's computer needs to go through a "drive cycle" with a mix of city and highway driving to perform diagnostics and verify that the system is working correctly. 
• Emissions readiness: The check engine light is often related to emissions, and a drive cycle is required for the vehicle's emissions readiness monitors to show as "ready" for inspection. 
• Variable mileage: The exact mileage required can vary by car manufacturer, but 50 to 100 miles is the general range. Some specific models may require slightly more or less, such as 30 to 60 miles for some Toyotas or 70 to 140 miles for some BMWs. 

What to do if the light stays on

• If the light remains on after you've driven the recommended distance, the original problem has likely not been fixed and needs professional attention.
• You should take your vehicle to an ASE Certified mechanic or a trusted repair shop to have the issue diagnosed and fixed to prevent further damage or a potential warranty void. 

Can I drive my car in limp mode 100 miles?

No, you should not drive 100 miles in limp mode, as it is unsafe and can cause further damage. Limp mode is a protective feature designed to allow you to drive to a safe location or the nearest repair shop, not for long distances. Driving for an extended period can worsen the underlying problem, potentially leading to a more costly and serious issue. 
What to do instead

• Drive directly to a repair shop: If you are close enough and the car is driving smoothly, drive directly to the nearest service center. 
• Limit your speed: Do not push the car hard. Drive cautiously and at reduced speeds. 
• Call for a tow: If the distance is long, if the car is misfiring, making strange noises, or if the check engine light is flashing, it is safest to get it towed. 
• Restart the engine: Pull over, turn the car off, wait at least 60 seconds, and then restart it. This can sometimes clear the issue temporarily, but you should still get it checked. 
• Get a diagnostic check: Have a mechanic use a diagnostic computer to identify the specific problem and fix it properly.