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The check engine light is a signal that the onboard diagnostics system (or OBD II) has detected a malfunction in the vehicle’s emissions, ignition, fuel or exhaust systems. All cars and light trucks have onboard diagnostics that are supposed to detect engine-related problems that affect the emissions control systems.
What could cause the check engine light to come on?
A problem with either your spark plug wires or the spark plugs themselves could cause your check engine light to come on. Ignoring this problem may lead to a clogged catalytic converter, damaged ignition coils, or problems with your oxygen sensor.
Is it safe to drive with check engine light on?
Can you drive a car with the engine light on? It’s okay to drive for a few miles, but be sure to schedule an inspection of the engine as soon as possible. If the check engine light comes on while you’re driving, don’t panic! Just be sure to have your car inspected as soon as possible after the light turns on.
Why is my engine light on but nothing seems wrong?
Normally, the appearance of a check engine light indicates a problem somewhere in your vehicle, but nothing seems amiss. The problem can even be as simple as forgetting to tighten your gas cap – in fact, this is the most common reason why check engine lights appear in the first place.
When should I be worried about check engine light?
Unlike a Temperature or Oil Pressure light, a Check Engine light is usually not an urgent, “Stop right now or you may cause permanent damage!” type of situation, unless it is flashing. If your gas cap is loose or the seal is not tight, the vapor leakage can cause your fuel system to trigger the check engine light.
What does a solid yellow check engine light mean?
The steady yellow light is telling you to take a look and fix the minor issue as soon as you can, but it’s not usually serious. The flashing light means that your vehicle’s engine is misfiring and you should investigate the problem immediately.
Can AutoZone check engine light?
Does AutoZone Scan Check Engine Lights? AutoZone can diagnose Check Engine Light codes, yes. If your engine light turned on and you are wondering why, head down to your local AutoZone where one of our store associates can help diagnose the issue through our free Fix Finder service.
How much does it cost to get engine light checked?
There’s a lot that goes on inside your engine, and rooting out the problem and fixing it can be a costly proposition. How costly? On average, the fee to have an auto mechanic diagnose a check engine light is $100.
Who can diagnose a check engine light?
Solving check engine light problems Take your car to a mechanic and pay a diagnostic fee. Often, the fee is waived if you agree to have the necessary service performed at that garage. Bring your car to an auto parts store and have the code read for free. Buy an inexpensive scanner and read the code yourself.
Will a dealership buy my car if the check engine light is on?
Most dealerships will use the check engine light malfunction as an excuse to pay you less than the car may be worth. Be ready for a very low offer for the trade in. Your research will show the dealer you will not be taken advantage of.
Can needing an oil change cause check engine light to come on?
An illuminated check engine light is the first warning sign that your vehicle needs an oil change. It can activate because the oil is too dirty or when there’s not enough flowing throughout the engine. If it’s dark, black in color, or too low, schedule an oil change today.
Can Autozone reset check engine light?
Wondering if the local Autozone can turn off a check engine light? The answer is yes, but… there are a couple things to remember: Local auto parts stores will typically offer to read your codes for free, but not all locations will clear the light due to liability issues.
What should you not say to a car salesman?
10 Things You Should Never Say to a Car Salesman “I really love this car” “I don’t know that much about cars” “My trade-in is outside” “I don’t want to get taken to the cleaners” “My credit isn’t that good” “I’m paying cash” “I need to buy a car today” “I need a monthly payment under $350”.
How do I turn my check engine light off?
The on-off method is the equivalent fix for a vehicle’s check engine light. It forces the computer to refresh its saved state through a reboot. Simply place your key into the ignition and turn it on for 1-2 seconds, then turn it off for 1-2 seconds. Repeat this step three or four times.
How many miles after check engine light clears?
So why is the light still on? Here’s something you probably don’t know: after clearing the car’s computer you will need to drive for about 50 to 100 miles. As you drive your car the computer will monitor all the sensors and register the results.
How much does it cost to reset check engine light?
The national average repair cost linked to a car or truck’s check engine light now stands at $357, including parts ($216) and labor ($141).
Will a check engine light turn off by itself?
A check engine light will shut itself off if the condition that caused it is remedied. If you then did a bunch of highway driving before changing the oil, the specs may have dropped back into the normal range, causing the light to go off.
