Car Running Rough Check Engine Light Flashing

What it means

When your car is running rough and the check engine light is flashing, it means that there is a serious problem that needs to be addressed immediately. The flashing light indicates that the problem is so severe that it could damage your engine if you continue to drive.

What to do

If your car is running rough and the check engine light is flashing, you should pull over to a safe location and turn off the engine. Do not drive the car any further, as this could cause further damage.

Once you have pulled over, you should call for roadside assistance or have the car towed to a mechanic. The mechanic will be able to diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.

Common causes

There are many different things that can cause a car to run rough and the check engine light to flash. Some of the most common causes include:

* **Misfires:** Misfires occur when the spark plugs are not firing properly. This can cause the engine to run rough and can also lead to decreased fuel economy.
* **Fuel injector problems:** Fuel injector problems can also cause the engine to run rough. If the fuel injectors are not delivering the correct amount of fuel to the engine, it can cause the engine to run lean or rich.
* **Ignition coil problems:** Ignition coil problems can also cause the engine to run rough. If the ignition coils are not providing the correct amount of spark to the spark plugs, it can cause the engine to misfire.
* **Timing belt problems:** Timing belt problems can also cause the engine to run rough. If the timing belt is not installed correctly, it can cause the engine to run out of time.
* **Vacuum leaks:** Vacuum leaks can also cause the engine to run rough. If there is a vacuum leak in the intake manifold, it can cause the engine to run lean.
* **Exhaust leaks:** Exhaust leaks can also cause the engine to run rough. If there is an exhaust leak in the exhaust manifold, it can cause the engine to run rich.

Cost of repairs

The cost of repairs for a car that is running rough and has a flashing check engine light will vary depending on the cause of the problem. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $1,000 for the repairs.

Conclusion

If your car is running rough and the check engine light is flashing, it is important to pull over and turn off the engine immediately. Do not drive the car any further, as this could cause further damage. Call for roadside assistance or have the car towed to a mechanic for diagnosis and repairs.