Car Engine Light Is On – What to Do?
Don’t Panic
The first thing you should do when your car engine light comes on is not to panic.
This is easier said than done, but it’s important to maintain your composure so you can think
clearly and make the best decisions for your car.
Check Your Owner’s Manual
Your owner’s manual will have a section that explains what the different lights on your
dashboard mean. This will help you determine if the engine light is indicating a serious
problem that needs to be addressed immediately, or if it can wait until your next scheduled
maintenance appointment.
Have the Code Read
If you can’t find any information about the engine light in your owner’s manual, you can have
the code read by a mechanic. This will give you more information about the specific problem that
is causing the light to come on.
Take Your Car to a Mechanic
If the engine light is indicating a serious problem, you should take your car to a mechanic
as soon as possible.
Symptoms of a Serious Engine Problem
- The engine is making a loud noise
- The engine is overheating
- The car is losing power
- The car is stalling
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should pull over and call a tow truck. Driving
with a serious engine problem can cause further damage to your car and could put you and
others at risk.
What to Expect When You Take Your Car to a Mechanic
When you take your car to a mechanic, they will likely start by reading the code that is
causing the engine light to come on. This will give them more information about the problem.
The mechanic will then perform a physical inspection of your car to look for any damage or leaks.
Once they have diagnosed the problem, they will recommend the best course of action.
Conclusion
Seeing the car engine light come on can be a stressful experience, but it’s important to
remember that it’s not always a sign of a serious problem. By following the steps outlined
above, you can determine if the problem is something that can wait until your next scheduled
maintenance appointment or if it needs to be addressed immediately.
