Check engine light
Check Engine Light On or Flashing: What to Do
A steady check engine light means the car has stored a fault and should be looked at soon. A flashing light usually means an engine misfire that can damage the catalytic converter. If it flashes, reduce speed, do not pull a trailer or carry a heavy load, and stop driving as soon as you safely can.
- All makes and models
- $125 diagnostic, credited if you go ahead with the repair
- Nephi to Ogden, including Eagle Mountain and Heber
What is the difference between a steady and a flashing check engine light?
- Steady. The car has stored a fault code. It is not an emergency by itself, but it should be looked at soon, especially if the car drives differently.
- Flashing. Usually an active misfire. Unburned fuel can reach the catalytic converter and overheat it, which is an expensive part. Treat it as urgent.
- Steady, with a change in how the car drives. Rough running, loss of power or a strange smell makes it more serious. Have it looked at sooner.
Is it safe to keep driving with the check engine light on?
With a steady light and a car that drives normally, you can usually drive a short way. Do not ignore it for weeks, because a small fault can become a larger one.
A check engine light together with a temperature warning, smoke or a strong fuel smell is a reason to stop driving right away. If fuel is pooling or there is smoke or fire, move everyone well away and call 911.
What causes a check engine light to come on?
The light only says the car stored a fault. It does not say which part has failed. Triggers include:
- A loose or worn fuel cap. Make sure it is tightened.
- Spark plugs, coils or wires. Worn ones can cause a misfire.
- A failing sensor. Oxygen, air flow and other sensors affect how the engine runs.
- Emissions parts. Including the catalytic converter itself.
Having it diagnosed
Call or text and describe the problem. The diagnostic visit is $125 on every job. If you go ahead, the $125 is credited toward the repair. If the repair does not go ahead, the $125 is not refunded. Travel costs $75 to $100 in addition to the diagnostic, depending on the miles and fuel involved.
Questions
Questions about the check engine light
What does a flashing check engine light mean?
A flashing light usually means the engine is misfiring right now. Unburned fuel can overheat and damage the catalytic converter. Reduce speed, do not pull a trailer or carry a heavy load, and stop driving as soon as it is safe.
Can I drive with the check engine light on?
If the light is steady and the car drives normally, you can usually drive a short way, but get it looked at soon. If it is flashing, or the car runs rough or loses power, stop driving as soon as it is safe.
Why is my check engine light on but the car seems fine?
The car stores a fault when a sensor reading falls outside its normal range, even if you cannot feel a problem. Causes range from a loose fuel cap to a failing sensor. The stored code is a starting point, not a final answer.
Will the check engine light turn off by itself?
Sometimes. A minor fault, such as a loose fuel cap, can clear after the car runs a few drive cycles without seeing it again. If the light stays on or comes back, the fault is still there.
Check engine light on?
Say whether the light is steady or flashing, and give the year, make and model.