When we are on the road, we want to ensure that we are driving safely and not putting ourselves or other people in danger. To ensure the safety of everyone involved, there are inbuilt protective mechanisms in the vehicle itself; one example is the check engine.
The check engine light indicates that the car may have some technical issues. It turns on for several reasons. These reasons range from something as small as a loose gas cap to something more severe such as a failed engine. Other reasons may include problems with the exhaust valves, the ignition chambers, or issues with the car’s modules and sensors, amongst other things.
For more comprehensive detail on why your check engine light might turn on and what the solution to this is, keep reading.
What Does The Check Engine Light Mean?
The engine light is crucial to the system’s onboard diagnostic system. The light shows up on your car’s computer and illuminates the screen. This happens when the system detects a problem with the car’s powertrain. The powertrain consists of the engine, transmission, and all other related components that could increase the tailpipe emissions.
How Does The Check Engine Work?
Most cars have about thirty computers, which work together to send the message to the main computer, the check engine. Each computer is responsible for a different part of the car, and as soon as there is an issue in one part, the signal is sent to the check engine, and it lights up.
The car is giving itself a diagnostic and indicates that it needs to be bought by a mechanic.
What Causes The Check Engine To Light up
There are several reasons why this may happen, and it is difficult to pinpoint the exact root of the issue unless you get your vehicle checked by a professional.
Watch this video for more detail
Engine Problems May Be The Cause
If your engine does not have enough oil or is overheated, this means that the engine is not able to perform its function efficiently. There may be other issues like broken parts or missing components within the engine. All these problems are a cause of concern, so an alert is sent to the check engine immediately.
There May Be An Issue With Transmission
The transmission is responsible for manipulating and transmitting the engine power to the drive wheels. A problem in the transmission pipeline can also create problems with emissions. Any problem with the transmission can also send a notification to the check engine.
There Can Be Electronic Problems
The sensors, modules and networks, and wiring are crucial in governing the powertrain of your vehicle. Any issue with these devices can send signals flaring to the check engine.
The Ignition Can Be Triggered
The spark plug, coil packs, and everything else that is needed to ignite the engine also form an integral part of the powertrain of the vehicle. Sometimes these plugs may not be adjusted properly. There might also be an issue of missing components. These alerts are often sent to the check engine.
The Air Or Fuel Might Not Be Balanced
The engine needs sufficient air and fuel to be able to work correctly. If the airflow is too much or too less for whatever reasons, the control module notices this and sends a notification to the check engine.
Your Emission Equipment May Be Faulty
A car has many emission equipments, including catalytic converters and exhaust fumes. They help eliminate excessive gases and regulate the temperature of your vehicle. If there is a fault in the emission equipment, it is likely to impact the whole vehicle, and so a notification to the check engine is necessary.
Is It Safe To Drive With The Engine Check Light Turned On?
If your car continues to function smoothly and efficiently and there are no clicking or ticking sounds, it is likely that driving with the engine check lights on is safe. This may be because the problem is not big enough to raise an alarm.
But if you notice other lights, i.e., the dashboard lights turning on, or if the car starts making sounds, you must stop immediately and check the issue. It is best to steadily bring the car to a stop after finding a safe place to park.
What To Do If Your Check Engine Light Is On?
The first thing you can do is tighten your gas cap. That sometimes also triggers the check engine light and causes it to turn on. If this does not resolve the issue, the only alternative is getting your vehicle just by a professional. There is no actual way for you to know what the problem is. A professional diagnosis can help you figure out the problem as well as the solution.
How Long Does It Take To Fix The Issue?
The issue is often identified in the first round of checkups. Depending on the severity of the issue, it can be resolved in two-three hours or may even take a full day or two. The engine check-up light only goes off when the problem is fixed.
How Often Should You Get Your Vehicle Checked?
To avoid taking your car to the mechanic as a last-minute resort, you should maintain it properly and take it for diagnosis once or twice a year. If there is anything that needs a repair, it would be resolved there and then, and no emergency panic would be created.
How Much Does A Tune-Up Cost?
This depends on the vehicle and the nature of the problems. The tune-up can take from 40-150 dollars but some vehicles may cost around 800 dollars for a full tune-up.
The Bottom Line
The engine check light system is an inbuilt mechanism that is there to indicate and notify us of all powertrain-related issues. The issues can range from minor to serious ones, but the best course of action is always to take the indicator seriously and get your car checked. Safety is imperative when it comes to driving.
