Your Check Engine Light Came On – Now What?
It may be red or yellow, flashing or solid, a graphic or some words – but the “check engine” light is an important communication tool between you and your car. Usually, when the check engine light is off, you don’t even think about it. If it is on, your engine is warning you that something is wrong. So what action should you take when the check engine light is on?
What the light actually means
Luckily for you, a check engine light coming on doesn’t mean you need to get help right then usually. This does mean though, that you should probably get the car checked very soon. Depending on the car, your check engine light might “strobe.” A strobing light means that you need to get your engine checked very soon since the problem is more serious. However, there are a few simple things you can do to get more information when your check engine light goes on.
Read the check engine error code
Information about your engine is usually recorded in an internal computer in your engine. There are a lot of auto part stores that will keep code reader computers on hand for free use. As soon as you can after your check engine light comes on, go to the store and ask to use the computer. On your dash, between the steering wheels and pedals, is usually where the plugin for the computer is found. After following the instructions on the computer, an error code should show up. This code should be written down.
The check engine light code and what it means
The check engine light code that the code-reader computer will give you is often cryptic. Talk to the auto parts store staff, or search the web for the meaning of the error code. As soon as you know why your check engine light is on, you can make an educated decision about what to do.
Should you do it yourself?
If you are comfortable with vehicle repair, then you might be able to fix the check engine light problem yourself. Sometimes the problem could just be a loose cap. Other times, it may be a major malfunction in your engine. Be sure you know how to repair the problem before you do it yourself. If you have the tools, the confidence and the parts, then fixing the problem yourself can be relatively simple.
Getting service done in a shop
If the problem seems like it is going to be extremely difficult to fix, you should take the car in for service. Almost every car-repair shop has a code reading computer, and you should let your mechanic know that the light is on. Before any work is done, ask for a detailed repair estimate. Once you have the car back, watch for the light for a couple of weeks to make sure the fix actually worked.
What about ignoring the check engine light?
It can be tempting to ignore the check engine light when it goes on. It might be a very bad thing if you were to ignore this light. Depending on the severity of the problem, you could be seriously damaging your engine. Later repairs could get pricey and fuel efficiency might go down. In short, the check engine light is the first indication buying cialis that something is wrong – so if you pay attention, you will save yourself time and heartache.
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