Did you know that almost 30% of people say they wait between one month and one year to get their check engine light inspected?
An illuminating check engine light doesn’t always indicate an immediate problem, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
If your vehicle’s check engine light comes on, there are various steps to take, including visiting an auto repair shop. Keep reading to learn more.
Flashing vs. Static Check Engine Light
Knowing what to do when your check engine light comes on involves knowing the difference between a flashing and a static check engine light.
If the check engine light illuminates but is static, something might be wrong with your vehicle, but it’s usually not a sign of a catastrophic engine failure.
You can continue driving, but make plans to take your car into an auto repair shop as soon as possible.
If the check engine light is blinking, or if your vehicle displays a solid red light instead of yellow, your engine is going through something that requires immediate attention.
A blinking light is usually an indication that there is a large issue that needs to immediately be addressed.
Look for Problems
If your check engine light comes on, look for immediate problems. Investigating your vehicle can help you find an issue and eliminate some possible causes.
Some problems that require immediate attention from an auto repair service include:
- A loose or unplugged wire
- A missing engine cap
- Low oil pressure
- Overheating
When these issues occur, your check engine light will be triggered.
Check Your Gas Cap
It’s very common for a loose gas cap to trigger your check engine light. Luckily, this requires no repairs and you can easily fix it yourself. Check your cap and fix it if it’s not on correctly.
It’s important to note that the light might not turn off for several trips after your fix the gas cap. If you want peace of mind that a loose gas cap was the culprit, you can still have your vehicle checked by a mechanic.
A mechanic will recommend a vehicle diagnostic test to confirm the cause of the illuminating check engine light.
Perform a Diagnostics Test
The best thing you can do when your check engine light comes on is to visit an auto repair company that can perform a diagnostics test.
Your vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system is home to the check engine light. It oversees your vehicle through the internal computer system.
Since there are a number of potential issues that could arise, a diagnostic test is your best chance at figuring out the key problem. Mechanics can use diagnostic tools to diagnose more than three million possible automotive concerns.
Visit an Auto Repair Shop
Fredericksburg auto repair shops are staffed with mechanics and vehicle technicians equipped to get to the bottom of your vehicle’s issues.
When your check engine light comes on, it doesn’t always mean immediate failure. Whether your check engine light is static or blinking, it’s essential to visit an auto repair shop.
Get in touch with us today to get your vehicle serviced.