Can I Sell My Car with the Engine Light On?

The engine light is one of the most common warning lights on a car. It can be caused by a variety of issues, from minor to major. If the engine light is on, it’s important to have it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible. However, what if you’re trying to sell your car and the engine light is on? Can you still sell it?

The Answer

The answer is: it depends. In most cases, you can still sell your car with the engine light on. However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

1. The Severity of the Issue

The first thing you need to consider is the severity of the issue that is causing the engine light to come on. If it’s a minor issue, such as a loose gas cap or a faulty sensor, it’s unlikely to affect the sale of your car. However, if the issue is more serious, such as a major engine problem, it could significantly reduce the value of your car.

2. The Cost of Repairs

Another thing to consider is the cost of repairs. If the issue that is causing the engine light to come on is relatively inexpensive to fix, it may not be a major deterrent to buyers. However, if the repairs are going to cost a significant amount of money, it could make it more difficult to sell your car.

3. The Disclosure Laws

In most states, you are required to disclose any known defects in your car when you sell it. This includes any issues that are causing the engine light to come on. Failure to disclose a known defect could lead to legal problems down the road.

How to Sell Your Car with the Engine Light On

If you’re trying to sell your car with the engine light on, there are a few things you can do to make it more likely to sell.

1. Be Honest

The first thing you should do is be honest with potential buyers about the issue that is causing the engine light to come on. Don’t try to hide it or downplay the severity of the problem.

2. Get a Diagnosis

If you don’t know what is causing the engine light to come on, it’s a good idea to get a diagnosis from a mechanic. This will give you a better idea of the severity of the problem and the cost of repairs.

3. Offer to Fix the Issue

If the issue that is causing the engine light to come on is relatively inexpensive to fix, you may want to offer to fix it before you sell your car. This will make it more appealing to buyers and could help you get a higher price for your car.

4. Be Prepared to Negotiate

Be prepared to negotiate on the price of your car if the engine light is on. Most buyers will be willing to pay less for a car with an engine light on, so be prepared to come down on your price.

Conclusion

Selling a car with the engine light on is possible, but it’s important to be honest with potential buyers and to be prepared to negotiate on the price. By following the tips in this article, you can increase your chances of selling your car for a fair price.