Engine Light Stays On: Causes and Solutions
The engine light is a warning light on your car’s dashboard that indicates a problem with the engine. When the engine light is on, it means that the engine control module (ECM) has detected a problem and has stored a trouble code in its memory.
There are many different causes of an engine light, and some are more serious than others. Some of the most common causes of an engine light include:
- Loose gas cap
- Faulty oxygen sensor
- Clogged catalytic converter
- Spark plug problems
- Fuel injector problems
- Emissions control system problems
If your engine light is on, it is important to have it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible. Driving with an engine light on can damage your car’s engine and lead to more expensive repairs.
How to Reset the Engine Light
In some cases, you may be able to reset the engine light yourself. To do this, you will need a scan tool. A scan tool is a device that plugs into your car’s diagnostic port and allows you to read and clear trouble codes.
To reset the engine light, follow these steps:
- Connect the scan tool to your car’s diagnostic port.
- Turn on the scan tool and select the “Read Codes” option.
- The scan tool will display a list of trouble codes. Find the trouble code that corresponds to the engine light.
- Select the trouble code and click the “Clear Code” button.
- Turn off the scan tool and disconnect it from your car.
If you are not able to reset the engine light yourself, you will need to take your car to a mechanic.
What to Do If the Engine Light Comes Back On
If the engine light comes back on after you have reset it, it means that there is still a problem with your car. You will need to take your car to a mechanic to have the problem diagnosed and repaired.
Driving with an engine light on can damage your car’s engine and lead to more expensive repairs. If your engine light is on, it is important to have it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible.
Conclusion
The engine light is an important warning light that should not be ignored. If your engine light is on, it is important to have it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible. Driving with an engine light on can damage your car’s engine and lead to more expensive repairs.