Didn’t Turn Car Key All the Way: Engine Light
Overview
If you’ve ever started your car and noticed the engine light is on, you may have wondered what caused it. One possible reason is that you didn’t turn the key all the way. When you turn the key to the “on” position, the engine light will come on briefly to check the system. If you don’t turn the key all the way to the “start” position, the engine will not start and the engine light will stay on.
What Happens When You Turn the Key to the “On” Position?
When you turn the key to the “on” position, a few things happen:
- The ignition switch sends power to the engine control module (ECM).
- The ECM checks the engine system for any problems.
- If the ECM finds any problems, it will turn on the engine light.
What Happens When You Turn the Key to the “Start” Position?
When you turn the key to the “start” position, the following happens:
- The ignition switch sends power to the starter motor.
- The starter motor engages with the flywheel and starts the engine.
- Once the engine starts, the ECM turns off the engine light.
What Should You Do if the Engine Light Is On?
If you notice that the engine light is on, you should do the following:
- Check the owner’s manual for the specific meaning of the engine light code.
- If the code indicates a serious problem, such as a misfire or a problem with the emissions system, you should have the car inspected by a mechanic.
- If the code indicates a minor problem, such as a loose gas cap, you can usually fix the problem yourself.
How to Prevent the Engine Light from Coming On
The best way to prevent the engine light from coming on is to follow these tips:
- Always turn the key all the way to the “start” position when starting the car.
- Make sure the gas cap is properly tightened.
- Have the car inspected regularly by a mechanic.
Conclusion
If you’ve ever started your car and noticed the engine light is on, don’t panic. It’s possible that you simply didn’t turn the key all the way. Check the owner’s manual for the specific meaning of the engine light code and take appropriate action.
