When your check engine light comes on in your car, it can certainly be a stressful experience, especially if you’re not sure what’s up with your ride. A lit check engine light can be an indicator of any number of things, from a loose gas cap to more serious emission issues. Thankfully, the right mechanic will be able to help with check engine light testing, but it’s also helpful to be an informed driver and know what the check engine light can mean, what you should do about it, and when you should see a mechanic.
What Your Check Engine Light Means
Put simply, your check engine light coming on means that a part of your engine needs to be worked on in order to get back to optimal driving condition. This could mean anything from an overdue oil change to transmission repair. Some common causes of your check engine light coming on include:
- Loose gas cap
- Spark plug related issues
- Faulty catalytic converter
- Overdue oil change
- Mass airflow sensor is bad
While some of these are quick fixes, they can all lead to disaster on the road if they’re not taken care of in a timely manner.
Flashing vs Lit Check Engine Light
Whether your check engine light is simply lit or is blinking and flashing can make or break your vehicle. If your check engine light is on but there are no apparent signs of vehicle trouble, you can generally stand to drive it a few miles until you can get to a trusted mechanic. If your check engine light is blinking or flashing in a specific repetitive pattern, this is a sign of serious trouble. Pull over your car as soon as it’s safe and call yourself a tow truck to get your car to the nearest mechanic safely.
Come to Louisville Automotive Shop for The Best Check Engine Light Help!
When you need help with your check engine light, come straight to the pros here at Louisville Automotive Shop, and we’ll get you taken care of! We look forward to servicing your vehicle soon!
