If you've owned a car, chances are you've experienced the check engine light coming on. For most of us, this is a dreaded experience because it introduces the possibility that costly repairs are in the near future. For others, the check engine light is only a minor annoyance that can be easily ignored. That's not a recommended behavior, however, considering that ignoring a warning light that's designed to come on when something isn't working properly can lead to serious problems. Here's some basic information and advice about you vehicle's check engine light, also known as the MIL, Malfunction Indicator Lamp.
OBD-II
If your vehicle was produced in model-year 1996 or later, you're in luck because it uses the standardized list of diagnostic trouble codes known as OBD-II. This means that a your mechanic, local auto parts store, or you yourself can use a code reader to find out why your check engine light is on. Prior to 1996, carmakers all used their own diagnostic system so a universal code reader wouldn't work. Getting the code and the reason for the check engine light isn't always as helpful as you might think, however. Your vehicle might sense a problem with a certain part of system, but that doesn't necessarily tell you what needs to be repaired or replaced.
Different Lights
There can be some confusion about the meaning of the lights on your dashboard. For example, your check engine light could come on and be solid, or it could begin flashing. If the check engine light is solid, it typically signals an issue with the car's emissions system. This includes a problem with the O2 sensor, catalytic converter, mass air flow sensor or spark plug wires. In some cases, it simply signals that your gas cap is loose so be sure to check that first if your check engine light comes on. If the light begins flashing, that signals that there's a serious problem that could soon lead to your catalytic converter overheating. This introduces the possibility of a fire under your hood so pull over immediately to prevent serious damage. The check engine light has also been confused with the service required light, but they mean completely different things. Rather than signaling that there's an active problem with your vehicle, the service required light comes on when you're due for routine maintenance like an oil change.
Ignoring the light
An estimated 10-percent of the cars on the road today have a check engine light on. In half of those vehicles, drivers have ignored the light for more than 3-months. As mentioned, this increases the risk that you'll experience a more serious problem as you continue to drive. The check engine light also likely means that your car is releasing excess pollutants and could mean that it's using more gas than usual. So, ignoring the light for months could actually waste as much money in gas as a simple repair would have cost. And, since the emissions control system is such a good barometer for the overall health of your vehicle's engine, it's important to have it checked out by a professional whenever even minor issues pop up.
At Benzin Motor Works, we specialize in servicing BMWs, Mercedes and Hummer H1s. When a check engine light appears on your dashboard, come see us for a fast diagnosis of the problem and expert repairs.