Car Inspection with Check Engine Light On

What is the Check Engine Light?

The check engine light is a warning light that illuminates on your dashboard when the engine control module (ECM) detects a problem with your vehicle’s engine or emissions system. The ECM is a computer that monitors various sensors and systems within your car, and when it detects a problem, it will turn on the check engine light to alert you that something is wrong.

What Does the Check Engine Light Mean?

The check engine light can mean a variety of things, depending on the make and model of your car. However, in general, it means that there is a problem with your vehicle’s engine or emissions system. The problem could be anything from a minor issue, such as a loose gas cap, to a major problem, such as a blown head gasket.

Should I Drive My Car with the Check Engine Light On?

If the check engine light comes on while you are driving, it is important to have your car inspected as soon as possible. Continuing to drive with the check engine light on can damage your engine and other components of your vehicle. In some cases, it can even lead to a breakdown.

What to Do If the Check Engine Light Comes On

If the check engine light comes on, the first thing you should do is pull over and turn off your engine. Then, you should call a tow truck or have your car towed to a mechanic. The mechanic will be able to diagnose the problem and repair it.

How to Inspect Your Car for the Check Engine Light

If you are comfortable working on your own car, you can inspect it yourself for the check engine light. To do this, you will need a code reader. A code reader is a device that plugs into your car’s diagnostic port and reads the trouble codes that are stored in the ECM. Once you have a code reader, follow these steps to inspect your car:

1. Connect the code reader to your car’s diagnostic port.
2. Turn on the ignition.
3. Follow the instructions on the code reader to read the trouble codes.
4. Once you have read the trouble codes, you can look them up online to find out what they mean.

Common Causes of the Check Engine Light

There are many different things that can cause the check engine light to come on. Some of the most common causes include:

• Loose gas cap
• Bad oxygen sensor
• Bad spark plugs or wires
• Vacuum leak
• Blown head gasket

Conclusion

The check engine light is a warning light that should not be ignored. If the check engine light comes on, it is important to have your car inspected as soon as possible to avoid further damage. By following the steps above, you can inspect your car for the check engine light and determine the cause of the problem.