## What to Do When the Engine Light Comes On in Your Car
The engine light is one of the most dreaded sights for any car owner. When it comes on, it can be a sign of anything from a minor issue to a major problem. If you see the engine light come on, it’s important to take it seriously and get your car checked out as soon as possible.
What Does the Engine Light Mean?
The engine light is also known as the “check engine light” or “malfunction indicator lamp” (MIL). It is a warning light that is illuminated when the car’s computer detects a problem with the engine or emissions control system. The light can come on for a variety of reasons, including:
* **Minor problems:** A loose gas cap, a faulty sensor, or a bad spark plug can all cause the engine light to come on.
* **Major problems:** A more serious problem, such as a blown head gasket or a failed catalytic converter, can also cause the engine light to come on.
What to Do When the Engine Light Comes On
If you see the engine light come on, it’s important to take it seriously. Here are the steps you should take:
1. **Pull over to a safe location.** If you can, pull over to a safe location as soon as possible. Turn off the engine and let it cool down.
2. **Check the gas cap.** A loose gas cap is one of the most common causes of an illuminated engine light. Check the gas cap and make sure it’s tight.
3. **Restart the car.** Once you’ve checked the gas cap, restart the car. If the engine light is still on, it means there’s a more serious problem.
4. **Take your car to a mechanic.** If the engine light is still on after you’ve restarted the car, it’s important to take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible. The mechanic will be able to diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.
What Not to Do When the Engine Light Comes On
There are a few things you should not do when the engine light comes on. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
* **Ignoring the light.** Ignoring the engine light is never a good idea. If you ignore the light, the problem will only get worse and could eventually lead to a more serious and expensive repair.
* **Driving your car for a long period of time.** If the engine light is on, it’s important to take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible. Driving your car for a long period of time with the engine light on can damage the engine and other components.
* **Trying to fix the problem yourself.** Unless you’re a qualified mechanic, it’s not a good idea to try to fix the problem yourself. If you try to fix the problem yourself, you could make the problem worse.
Conclusion
The engine light is a warning light that should not be ignored. If you see the engine light come on, it’s important to take it seriously and get your car checked out as soon as possible. By taking these steps, you can help to prevent a more serious and expensive repair.
## Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most common causes of the engine light coming on?
Some of the most common causes of the engine light coming on include:
* Loose gas cap
* Faulty sensor
* Bad spark plug
* Blown head gasket
* Failed catalytic converter
What should I do if the engine light comes on while I’m driving?
If the engine light comes on while you’re driving, it’s important to pull over to a safe location as soon as possible. Turn off the engine and let it cool down. Once you’ve checked the gas cap and restarted the car, if the engine light is still on, it’s important to take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible.
Can I drive my car with the engine light on?
You should not drive your car for a long period of time with the engine light on. Driving your car with the engine light on can damage the engine and other components. It’s important to take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible to have the problem diagnosed and repaired.
How much does it cost to fix a check engine light?
The cost of fixing a check engine light will vary depending on the problem. A minor problem, such as a loose gas cap, may only cost a few dollars to fix. A more serious problem, such as a blown head gasket, could cost several hundred dollars to fix.
