The diagnostic system in your vehicle is extremely sophisticated and sensitive. This means that your Check Engine Light may pop on for a wide variety of reasons, many of which are minor issues that don’t require expensive repairs. However, this doesn’t mean the Check Engine Light should be ignored. Some of the more common issues that may trigger your Check Engine Light include:

• A loose or open fuel cap
• Dirty spark plugs
• A broken or failing catalytic converter
• An emissions equipment issue
• A vacuum leak
• Low battery
• Improperly firing fuel injectors

No. If it’s a loose gas cap, all you have to do is tighten it when you get home and the Check Engine Light will turn off again. However, you won’t know for sure until you get it checked out. This is just one more reason not to delay. If there is a major problem, waiting to get a diagnosis can make the potential repair more and more expensive.

We do not recommend driving when your Check Engine Light on. This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to make an emergency stop but you should make a plan to park safely and have your vehicle checked out as soon as possible. Driving with the Check Engine Light on might also transform a minor issue into a major problem. The good news is that vehicles in North America are sold with an OBD-II port for diagnosing sudden issues with your vehicle. Connecting a code reader to the port will give you some idea of the severity of the problem and tell you whether or not it is safe to drive to your preferred vehicle service provider. Code readers are widely available, inexpensive, and easily stowed in your emergency roadside kit. Our team at Jack Carter Cherolet recommends every driver invest in a code reader.

Don’t panic! If you see a steady Check Engine Light there’s usually no need to make an emergency stop unless something feels immediately wrong with your drive. If you suddenly hear a new noise, smell something off, or feel a change in the way your vehicle is handling it's a good idea to act by pulling over as quickly and safely as possible. The same goes for a blinking Check Engine Light, which indicates a more severe problem. You can also scan your dash and instrument panel for other warning lights that may give you more information.