What does it mean when car engine light comes on?

The check engine light is one of the most common warning lights on a car. It can be illuminating when there is a problem with the engine, emissions system, or other important components.

There are many different reasons why the check engine light may come on. Some of the most common include:

Loose or damaged gas cap
Dirty or faulty oxygen sensor
Ignition system problems
Exhaust system problems
Engine performance problems
Transmission problems
Electrical problems

It is important to have the check engine light checked out as soon as possible to determine the cause of the problem and to prevent further damage to your car.

What should you do if the check engine light comes on?

If the check engine light comes on, there are a few things you should do:

Pull over to a safe location. If you are driving, pull over to a safe location as soon as possible.
Turn off the engine. Once you have pulled over, turn off the engine.
Check the gas cap. Open the gas cap and check the seal. If the seal is loose or damaged, tighten it and restart the engine. If the light goes off, the problem was likely caused by a loose or damaged gas cap.
Have the car scanned. If the check engine light is still on, you will need to have it scanned to determine the cause of the problem. The car can be scanned at an automotive repair shop or by a mobile mechanic.
Get the problem fixed. Once you know the cause of the problem, you will need to get it fixed. The cost of the repair will vary depending on the cause of the problem.

How to prevent the check engine light from coming on

There are a few things you can do to prevent the check engine light from coming on:

Maintain your car. Regular maintenance can help prevent problems from developing and causing the check engine light to come on.
Drive conservatively. Avoid harsh acceleration and braking, which can put stress on the engine and other components.
Use high-quality gasoline. Using high-quality gasoline can help prevent problems with the fuel system and emissions system.
Have the car inspected regularly. A regular car inspection can help identify potential problems before they cause the check engine light to come on.

By following these tips, you can help prevent the check engine light from coming on and keep your car running smoothly.