Never Ignore a Check Engine Light

Why You Should Never Ignore a Check Engine Light

When the check engine light comes on, it doesn’t exactly fill any of us with delight. In fact, for most, it’s the sinking feeling that comes with a costly trip to the auto repair shop. 

But ignore that light at your peril. Whether it’s something major or minor, you need to get it investigated and fast!

Let’s take a quick look at why you should never ignore a check engine light.

It Came On For a Reason

Let’s put aside, for now, the unlikely scenario that your “malfunction indicator lamp” is broken. The fact is, it came on because the car’s onboard computer picked up a car engine fault on one of its sensors. 

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The beauty of this early warning system is that it usually alerts you before you know anything is wrong. Just because you haven’t noticed any issues does not mean the car does not need engine repair. Ignoring the light will lead to problems in the long run. 

It’s better to immediately check out aplustransmission.com, and get it over to their engine service and repair center as quickly as you can. Otherwise, you could be stranded at the side of the highway with engine failure.

You Can Investigate Yourself

If you know your way around cars, you can take a look at it yourself.

Even if you don’t, you can buy a pocket scan tool that can read diagnostic trouble codes. This plugs into your car’s OBD II port.

This will give you a code that you can then check in the owner’s manual. This might give you more confidence when getting it repaired.

A word to the wise: these readers may come with the option to disable the flashing light. Never do this without actually resolving the problem. It will come on again, and more damage may have been done in the meantime.

Never Ignore a Flashing Light

Think of the static check engine light as your get-out-of-jail-free card. Sure, it’ll cost you something, but it will solve the problem before it gets too big.

If your check engine light starts flashing, that means you’ve got a very serious problem with the engine. This could potentially be a fire hazard. Drop your plans and head straight for help.

Common Reasons for the Check Engine Light to Come On

The check engine light can highlight a number of engine issues. Here are some of the most common car engine problems it can find:

  • Replace catalytic converter
  • Replace ignition coil and spark plugs
  • Replace fuel injectors
  • Replace oxygen sensors

These are just a few of the engine problems it can find. They are all essential to the smooth running of the vehicle and no owner should ignore any of them.

Never Ignore the Check Engine Light!

Next time you see the check engine light, you know what to do. Get straight down to your local auto repair shop and get it checked out. Don’t take a chance, or you’ll run up hefty bills in the future.

If you’ve enjoyed this article, we’ve got plenty more for you. Check out our latest blogs for more hints and tips to protect you and your assets.