What to Do When the Check Engine Light Gives You a Warning

The check engine light is supposed to alert you when there is some problem in your vehicle. However, there are instances where the light may turn on even though there is no problem.

Never the less, you should never take any warning from the check engine light for granted. Some of the problems that are frequently related to the check engine light are brake failure, low battery voltage, low oil pressure, as well as overheating of either the transmission or engine.

When the check engine light turns on as you drive, slow down, stop, and make some necessary checks. One of the first things you should check is the level of brake fluid and add some more if it is too low.

You should also check other fluids in the car, including the level of the transmission fluid, engine oil, and anti-freeze. Check each of these fluids at a time to determine that they are as they should and make any necessary adjustments.

The check engine light may also turn on when some belts are missing. Check all the belts and ensure that they are in their respective positions. You should also check them closely to find out whether you may need to make a replacement because of some damage.

A malfunction in the control system may as well turn on the check engine light. Check all the components associated with the control system.

Other things that you should check include the battery, alternator, gas caps, as well as wires of the spark plug and engine.

What to Do When the Check Engine Light Gives False Warning

When the engine control system in your car has a fault, the check engine light will give you a warning. The light may either flash or give a steady illumination depending on the model and make of the car and it will keep on doing this until the problem is fixed.

However, there are times when the light will continue to either flash or illuminate steadily even after the problem has been fixed.

These are some of the measures you can take when the check engine light gives such a false warning.

Diagnostic Scanner Codes

When the check engine light illuminates, the car produces a diagnostic trouble code, which is interpreted by the diagnostic scanner to determine the specific area of the engine that has a problem.

Some of the associated systems include the starter, ignition, fuel, catalytic converter, and sensors. A diagnostic trouble code may also show engine misfires, emissions, or leaks.

Manually resetting the check engine light

There are times when you may perform a diagnostic scan but fail to get any indication of trouble. In such a case, you may have to reset the check engine light manually. However, you should only do this after you have made necessary checks to ensure that the engine functions normally.