A check engine light is a warning indication of the car that takes place to notify the driver that there is an issue with the engine. The check engine light appears to alert the driver that there is any problem in the car’s system.
Many drivers get stressed when they see a check engine light on the dashboard. However, understanding check engine lights can help them know what to do when they see it. However, check engine lights are of two categories: solid and flashing check engine lights. In this blog, you’ll learn completely about check engine lights so you can know what to do if you experience it while driving.
Solid Check Engine Light
When the check engine light is constant, it signifies that there is an issue with the car for which a fix should be done. This may involve anything from a faulty gas cap to an out-of-order oxygen sensor, but it is usually not an emergency. The car can still be used normally, but it is important to get the vehicle assessed by a mechanic as soon as possible so that no further damage occurs.
Reason for Solid Check Engine Light
Problem in Emission System
The most popular reason for a constant or solid check engine light (CEL) is problems with the vehicle’s emission control system. It may also involve issues with the oxygen sensor, catalytic converter, or inadequate tightening of the gas cap. Sensor Malfunction
The CEL can also light up when one or more sensors in your vehicle, such as the Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF) and Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR), fail to function correctly or send erroneous readings into the computer. If sensors send errors to the vehicle’s computer, a diagnostic test can fix it. Repair or Replacement of Some Engine Components
It could be a small problem with the engine, such as a misfire in one of the cylinders or minor vacuum leakage and faulty spark plugs. These issues may not be harmful in the short term, but it is advisable to address them before more damage and reduced fuel efficiency occurs. The solid check engine light can be fixed by replacing such engine components.
Flashing Check Engine Light
Flashing the check engine light is a more serious warning than constant CEL. When the light is flashing, it means a serious problem that may damage an engine or some other vital machinery of the vehicle. In this situation, one should stop driving the vehicle right away and tow it to a mechanic for repair. You should take it to the engine repair services if you can’t tow it.
If the check engine light blinks, ignoring it will lead to vehicle damage, which means more expensive repair costs later. It can also lead to emitting more pollutants and consuming higher amounts of fuel that negatively impact the environment and your budget.
Reason of Flashing Check Engine Light
Engine Misfire
A blinking or flashing check engine light (CEL) usually indicates a catastrophic engine misfire that further causes converter damage. Misfiring is when one or more cylinders in your engine are not firing as they should. If you are experiencing unusual sounds from an engine with flashing CEL, it is a sign that your engine misfires.
Serious Engine Damage
It may suggest a severe problem, such as an essential vacuum leak, ignition failure, or fuel injection system defect. These issues may cause overheating or engine damage if any steps are not taken as soon as possible.
Damage to Catalytic Converter
Failure to acknowledge a flashing CEL will lead to extensive damage to the catalytic converter, which is an expensive part that needs replacement. Eric’s Car Care has certified technicians who can help you fix the check engine light.
What Can be Caused if the Check Engine Light is Ignored?
Although the light cannot perform any action, it lets you know something is not right – especially if there’s a blinking. It may lead to poor fuel economy, leakages, a lack of response when it comes to driving the vehicle, and, in extreme cases, an engine blow. And to state that one of the costliest procedures that may be done is a blown engine repair.
To prevent another problem, watch for the dashboard and pay attention if the ‘check engine’ light comes on. If it does, visiting a repair shop can save you lots of nerves and money. Mostly, people question how long you can drive with check engine light. It depends on the type of check engine light. If the light is solid, you can drive the vehicle for some miles, but if the engine check light is flashing, it is vital to take it to the mechanic shop to avoid further complications.
Get Your Car Checked by Erics Car Care
If you’re experiencing a check engine light, your vehicle has some big trouble. Call us today at 713-352-8058 to book an appointment for a complete examination of your car.
