Can I Drive with the Check Engine Light On?
You jump in your car with the kids on your way to school and you to an early morning meeting. You start the engine. Then you see it, that glaring orange ‘check engine’ symbol. What does it really mean? Is it safe to drive? Sometimes it’s as simple as a loose gas cap. Or it could be more a more serious problem with the engine. Let’s help you with some useful information about the check engine light and how we can help.
What Does the Check Engine Light Mean?
Your car is equipped with computer components to determine when something goes wrong. When the computer finds something, the check engine light will go on to tell you. To pinpoint the exact problem, a service technician can hook up your car to a diagnostic computer and determine the issue. But in the meantime, there are a few common reasons why the check engine light might come on.
- Gas cap: Did you recently fill up your car with gas? If your vehicle is equipped with a gas cap and it was not replaced correctly or is damaged, it could cause the check engine light to appear. In this case, remove the gas cap and put it back on. Start the car again. The light may not reset immediately and may take some time to turn off.
- Spark plugs: If the spark plugs are damaged, they can misfire and not perform as needed.
- Catalytic converter: The converter is an exhaust emission control that converts harmful exhaust into something less harmful. It might be clogged or damaged. Unfortunately, this is one of the more serious problems that can cause irreversible damage to your car.
- Overheating: If your car engine gets too hot, the check engine light may come on.
Can I Still Drive with the Check Engine Light On?
Whether or not you can drive with the check engine light on depends on the severity. If the light comes on and remains on, yet everything seems to be working like normal, you should be able to continue driving. But it is important to schedule an appointment to have the issue diagnosed and fixed.
If the light comes on and it is blinking, this is an indication of something more serious. Keep an eye out for noises that were not there before and if there is power loss. Is the vehicle is overheating; perhaps smoke is coming from the engine? When the light is blinking, it is recommended that you do not drive the vehicle to prevent further damage.
How Wendle Ford Can Help
We understand how a check engine light can raise your blood pressure. But we hope that our explanation will help lower it a bit. As you can see, there are some issues that when the light comes on, you can still drive your vehicle. In this case, please contact our Wendle Ford Service Center to schedule a time to bring your car in for a check engine light diagnostic. Our knowledgeable service techs will be able to determine the code that is causing the warning and get it fixed for you. If the light is flashing, don’t ignore the warning. Please call us immediately at (509) 565-8931 to discuss what your vehicle is doing and how you can get it to the shop.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do first when the check engine light comes on?
Check that your gas cap is tight, then note whether the light is solid or blinking. A solid light usually means a minor issue, but a blinking light indicates a more serious engine misfire that needs immediate attention.
Can a low battery cause the check engine light?
Yes. A weak or failing battery can trigger warning lights because it affects sensors and voltage levels. If the light appears after a slow or rough start, test your battery and charging system.
Will the check engine light turn off by itself?
Sometimes. If the problem is minor, such as a loose gas cap, the light may reset after several drive cycles once the issue is resolved. If it stays on, schedule a diagnostic to read the fault code.
Is it safe to drive when the check engine light is blinking?
No. A flashing check engine light usually means a severe engine misfire that can damage the catalytic converter. Pull over safely, turn off the engine, and arrange for service as soon as possible.
Can I use a code reader to check the issue myself?
Yes. Many auto parts stores and handheld scanners can read diagnostic codes. However, professional service technicians can interpret those codes accurately and identify underlying causes more effectively.
Where can I get a check engine light diagnostic in Spokane?
You can visit the Wendle Ford Service Center for a full diagnostic. Our technicians will scan your vehicle’s computer, explain the fault code, and recommend repairs to prevent further engine damage.
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