Car Idles Rough and Check Engine Light Flashes

What Does it Mean?

When your car idles rough and the check engine light is flashing, it means that there is a serious problem with the engine. The rough idle is caused by a misfire, which means that one or more of the cylinders is not firing properly. The flashing check engine light indicates that the problem is severe enough to cause damage to the engine.

What Causes a Rough Idle and Flashing Check Engine Light?

There are a number of things that can cause a rough idle and flashing check engine light, including:

* Spark plug failure
* Ignition coil failure
* Fuel injector problems
* Vacuum leaks
* Exhaust leaks
* Engine sensor problems
* Computer problems

What Should I Do if My Car Idles Rough and the Check Engine Light Flashes?

If your car idles rough and the check engine light is flashing, you should stop driving and have the car towed to a mechanic. Driving with a flashing check engine light can cause serious damage to the engine.

How Much Does it Cost to Fix a Rough Idle and Flashing Check Engine Light?

The cost of fixing a rough idle and flashing check engine light will vary depending on the cause of the problem. However, you can expect to pay between $100 and $500 for the repair.

Can I Fix a Rough Idle and Flashing Check Engine Light Myself?

If you are mechanically inclined, you may be able to fix a rough idle and flashing check engine light yourself. However, it is important to note that this is a complex repair and it is best left to a professional.

Prevention

There is no surefire way to prevent a rough idle and flashing check engine light, but you can reduce your risk by:

* Getting regular tune-ups
* Replacing spark plugs and ignition coils as needed
* Keeping the fuel system clean
* Fixing vacuum and exhaust leaks as soon as possible
* Replacing engine sensors as needed

Conclusion

A rough idle and flashing check engine light is a serious problem that should not be ignored. If you experience these symptoms, you should stop driving and have the car towed to a mechanic immediately. The cost of fixing the problem will vary depending on the cause, but you can expect to pay between $100 and $500. If you are mechanically inclined, you may be able to fix the problem yourself, but it is best left to a professional.