Check engine light: what it means and what to do
Check engine light: what it means and what to do
You should never ignore a check engine light. It’s your vehicle’s way of telling you there’s something wrong. It could indicate anything from a loose gas cap to serious engine troubles. To ensure you stay safe, the OCTO team has prepared this article to help you react accordingly if your check engine light comes on.
What does the check engine light mean?
First things first, don’t panic if your check engine light comes on. The best thing to do is stay calm and assess the situation. The light could mean many things, including:
- The engine’s electrical system has malfunctioned
- The exhaust system has a leak
- The emission control system isn’t working
- A cable or sensor is damaged
- The gas cap is missing or loose
In most cases, simply tightening or replacing the gas cap will do the trick. However, if you’ve done your due diligence and the check engine light is still on, you should immediately make an appointment at your nearest OCTO Auto Service Plus for professional service and advice. Our team uses specialized diagnostic software to get to the root of the problem. Once the issue is identified, one of our expert mechanics will make any necessary adjustments or repairs so you can get back on the road.
What to do if the check engine light is flashing
If the check engine light starts flashing while you’re driving, it indicates there’s a serious problem that requires immediate attention. For example, it could be a sign that your ignition is malfunctioning. This could cause unburned fuel to be released into the exhaust system, which could damage the catalytic converter, resulting in costly repairs.
If this happens, carefully make your way to the nearest auto repair shop or pull over to a safe location and call a tow truck while you wait for the engine to cool down.
OCTO Auto Service Plus: one repair at a time
There are several reasons why your vehicle’s check engine light may come on. However, ignoring it will only delay or worsen the problem. No matter what type of vehicle troubles you’re having, you can count on the experts at your neighbourhood OCTO Auto Service Plus to help. Contact us today to make an appointment.