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Car Care: Maintenance & Repair
Check Engine Light
In 1996, an orange light on your car’s dashboard labeled “Check Engine” or “Service Engine Soon” became standard on all car makes and models. The light tell you there’s a problem with your car’s engine and powertrain control system.
Why Do I Need This Service?
An illuminated “Check Engine” or “Service Engine Soon” light indicates a problem detected by your car’s onboard diagnostic system (OBD). The light cannot indicate the exact nature of the problem - only the right training and diagnostic equipment can do that.
Typical Service
- A flashing light indicates a problem that is currently happening and may require immediate attention, whereas a steady light can be diagnosed at the first convenient opportunity.
- A technician connects a “scan tool” to your car’s onboard diagnostic system to determine the problem.
- Further testing and diagnostics may be required to pinpoint the exact cause of the problem.\
- Once the problem is pinpointed, repairs are made and the light is reset.
Questions To Ask
- Does the light mean my car needs a tune-up?
- When checking out the cause of the light, are there any other services that need to be performed at the same time?
- Is it normal for the light to come on briefly when I start my car?
- What happens if I just ignore the light?
- Will the light eventually turn off by itself?
- Will my car pass an emissions test if the light is on?
Are You Aware?
A LOOSE GAS CAP CAN TRIGGER THE “CHECK ENGINE” OR SERVICE ENGINE SOON” LIGHT. MAKE SURE THE CAP IS SECURE AND TIGHT.
Reprinted with permission from the Car Care Council: www.carcare.org.
