## Engine Light Came On in Car: What to Do and What Not to Do
The dreaded engine light has come on in your car, and now you’re wondering what to do. Don’t panic! In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about what to do (and not to do) when your engine light comes on.
### What Does the Engine Light Mean?
The engine light is an indicator that your car’s computer has detected a problem with the engine or emissions system. It can be caused by a variety of issues, ranging from minor problems to more serious ones.
### What to Do When the Engine Light Comes On
**1. Stay Calm**
The first thing to do when the engine light comes on is to stay calm. Panicking will not help the situation and could make it worse.
**2. Pull Over Safely**
If you are driving, pull over to a safe location as soon as possible. Turn off the engine and put the car in park.
**3. Check the Dashboard**
Take a look at your dashboard to see if there are any other warning lights or messages. This could give you a better idea of what the problem is.
**4. Call for Help**
If you are not comfortable driving with the engine light on, call for roadside assistance or a tow truck.
**5. Get the Codes Read**
The next step is to get the codes read from the car’s computer. This will tell you what the specific problem is. You can do this at an auto parts store, a mechanic shop, or even some dealerships.
### What Not to Do When the Engine Light Comes On
**1. Ignore It**
The worst thing you can do when the engine light comes on is to ignore it. This could lead to more serious problems down the road.
**2. Keep Driving**
If the engine light is on, it is not advisable to keep driving. This could damage the engine and other components of the car.
**3. Try to Fix It Yourself**
Unless you are a qualified mechanic, it is not recommended to try to fix the problem yourself. This could make the problem worse.
### Common Causes of the Engine Light
The engine light can be caused by a variety of issues, including:
* **Loose or faulty gas cap**
* **Faulty oxygen sensor**
* **Spark plug or ignition coil problems**
* **Fuel injector problems**
* **Catalytic converter problems**
* **Exhaust system problems**
### How to Prevent the Engine Light from Coming On
There are a few things you can do to help prevent the engine light from coming on, including:
* **Regular maintenance**
* **Use high-quality fuel**
* **Avoid driving aggressively**
* **Get your car inspected regularly**
### Conclusion
The engine light is a warning that something is wrong with your car. It is important to take action as soon as possible to avoid more serious problems. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can safely and effectively deal with the engine light when it comes on.
