Driving with the check engine light on : what risks for your car ?

Think of the engine light on your vehicle’s dashboard as a silent, vigilant sentinel always keeping an eye on your vehicle’s health. It lights up as a warning signal indicating an issue or malfunction in the motor. Many car owners shrug it off, not knowing the potential risks they’re exposing their vehicles to. This article dives deep into understanding why you should never ignore the engine light.

Understanding the Engine Light: meaning and Symbols

Engine Light: an Important Component of Vehicle Health

The engine light, also known as the Engine Management Light (EML) or Check Engine Light (CEL), is a critical component of any modern vehicle’s dashboard. It serves as a beacon drawing attention to irregularities or malfunctions in engine components, exhaust system, or other systems related to vehicle operation.

Symbols and Their Significance

The symbols vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. However, most commonly, it’s symbolized by an engine icon or “Check Engine. “

After this brief overview of what the engine light is and its importance let’s delve into what triggers this light.

Main Causes of an Illuminated Engine Light

Common Triggers for Engine Light

• A problem with the fuel injector
• Lack of regular maintenance resulting in unclean filters
• Damaged spark plugs
• Faulty oxygen sensors

Knowing these reasons can help identify possible issues when the check engine light turns on. But how do you interpret different colors displayed ?

Engine Light Orange Versus Red: levels of Urgency

Differentiating Between Red and Orange Lights

An orange fixed engine light usually indicates a permanent, non-emergency error such as a malfunction in the anti-pollution system. If no alarming phenomena are observed, you can continue driving to a garage. However, a red or flashing light indicates a serious dysfunction requiring immediate vehicle stop to prevent irreversible engine damage. In this scenario, it’s advisable to have the vehicle towed.

Is it safe then to continue driving with an active engine light ? Let’s explore that next.

Can You Keep Driving With an Activated Engine Light ?

The Risks of Ignoring an Activated Engine Light

Driving with the engine light on could lead to reduced vehicle performance, increased fuel consumption, excessive pollutant emissions and in some cases, irreversible engine damage. It is therefore crucial to pay attention to this signal and act accordingly.

So, what should be your course of action when the check engine light comes on ?

Diagnosis and Appropriate Reactions When Engine Light is On

Steps to Take When Engine Light Comes On

If in doubt or if the engine light comes on, consult a mechanic for diagnosis and resolution of the problem. Ignoring this signal could result in severe consequences for your vehicle and your road safety.

But why exactly should you not ignore a blinking or steady engine light ?

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Blinking or Steady Engine Light

The Hazards of Ignoring a Blinking or Steady Check Engine Light

Apart from endangering your vehicle’s health, ignoring the check engine light can also put you at risk of failing your state’s emission test – leading to potential fines or even mandatory off-road time for your car while repairs are made.

Finally, how can you turn off the check engine light and when is it time to visit a mechanic ?

Turning off the Engine Light and When to See a Mechanic

Turning off the Engine Light

The engine light can only be reset by addressing the issue causing it. Once the problem has been fixed, your vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system will turn off the light.

When to See a Mechanic

If the engine light turns on and remains steady, you should make an appointment with a mechanic at your earliest convenience. However, if it’s flashing or red, you should stop driving immediately and call for roadside assistance.

In essence, understanding what triggers the engine light and how to react can save you from potential vehicle damage and hefty repair bills. Never ignore this vigilant sentinel; it might just save your car’s life !