What Does the Check Engine Light Mean?
The check engine light (CEL) on your dashboard is your vehicle’s way of alerting you that something isn’t quite right. It means the engine control unit has detected a problem in the engine, transmission, or emissions system.
The cause could be minor, such as a loose gas cap, or more serious, like engine misfires, faulty sensors, or other mechanical issues.
No matter the cause, we recommend having your vehicle inspected by our certified service center.
Our professionally trained and certified technicians use the latest diagnostic tools to accurately identify the issue and ensure it’s repaired correctly, helping prevent small problems from turning into costly repairs down the road.
What Should You Do First?
Before you panic, take a moment to check a few things. These steps can help you decide what to do next.
1. Check your Gas Cap
A loose gas cap is one of the most common reasons the check engine light comes on—and it’s also one of the easiest fixes.
- Make sure the gas cap is tightened until it clicks
- If the cap is cracked, damaged, or missing, it should be replaced
Even after tightening the gas cap, the check engine light may not turn off immediately. It can take several normal driving trips for the system to reset.
2. Is the Light Solid or Flashing?
How the light appears makes a big difference.
- Solid check engine light:
This usually means a non-urgent issue. The vehicle is typically safe to drive for a short time, but you should have it checked as soon as possible.
- Flashing check engine light:
This indicates a serious problem that can cause damage if you continue driving. Pull over safely, turn off the engine, and have the vehicle towed to us for diagnosis.
3. How Is the Car Driving?
Pay attention to how your vehicle feels.
- Shaking or vibrating
- Rough running
- Loss of power or hesitation
If you experience any of these symptoms, pull over safely and turn off the engine. Continuing to drive could cause further damage. Have the vehicle towed to us for a proper diagnosis.
When Is It Safe to Drive?
Whether or not it’s safe to keep driving depends on how the check engine light appears and how your vehicle is behaving.
It’s usually safe to drive if:
- The check engine light is on solid (not flashing)
- The vehicle is driving normally
- There are no unusual noises, shaking, or loss of power
In this case, you can typically continue driving for a short time, but you should schedule a visit to us for proper diagnosis as soon as possible.
Do NOT continue driving if:
- The check engine light is flashing
- The vehicle is shaking, running rough, or stalling
- You notice loss of power, strong smells, or unusual noises
If any of these occur, pull over safely, turn off the engine, and have the vehicle towed to us. Continuing to drive could cause serious and costly damage.
When in Doubt
If you are ever unsure, it’s better to be cautious. Addressing a check engine light early can prevent costly repairs and keep your vehicle running safely.
Can I Ignore it?
Even if your vehicle seems to be driving normally, we do not recommend ignoring the check engine light. The warning means your vehicle has detected a problem that needs attention.
Ignoring it can lead to:
- More expensive repairs as small issues turn into major ones
- Reduced fuel efficiency, costing you more at the pump
- Further engine or emissions system damage
Addressing the issue early can save you time, money, and prevent unexpected breakdowns.
Can I Self-Diagnose the Issue?
Trying to diagnose a check engine light on your own is a lot like searching your symptoms online when you’re feeling sick. While it may give you ideas, it doesn’t always lead to the correct answer.
The same is true with the check engine light. There are many possible reasons it can turn on, and the warning alone doesn’t pinpoint the exact problem. That’s why we recommend having our certified technicians properly diagnose the issue before making any repair decisions.
Replacing parts without an accurate diagnosis can lead to unnecessary repairs and higher costs, especially if the original cause was something else. A proper diagnosis ensures the correct repair is made and done right the first time.
Common causes of the Check Engine Light
Your vehicle’s check engine light can be triggered by a wide range of issues, from simple fixes to more serious mechanical problems. Below are some of the most common reasons and what they mean for your car.
Loose or Damaged Gas Cap
What does it mean?
The gas cap seals the fuel system and prevents fuel vapors from escaping. If it’s loose, cracked, or missing, the system detects a leak and triggers the check engine light.
What to do:
Tighten the gas cap until it clicks. If the cap is damaged, have it replaced as soon as possible. The light may turn off after a few driving cycles once corrected.
Why it matters:
A loose gas cap can waste fuel and increase emissions.
Faulty Oxygen (O₂) Sensor
What does it mean?
This sensor helps regulate how much fuel your engine uses. When it fails, the engine may burn too much or too little fuel, causing poor gas mileage or rough idling.
What to do:
Schedule a visit to our service center as soon as possible.
Why it matters:
Ignoring this issue can lead to higher fuel costs and more expensive repairs.
Worn Spark Plugs or Ignition Coils
What does it mean?
Spark plugs ignite the fuel-air mixture, while ignition coils supply the electrical charge. When they wear out, you may experience engine shaking, trouble starting, or reduced power.
What to do:
Visit our service center for inspection and replacement if needed.
Why it matters:
Worn ignition components can reduce performance and cause additional engine damage.
Mass Airflow Sensor Problems
What does it mean?
This sensor measures how much air enters the engine so the correct amount of fuel can be added. If it’s dirty or failing, the engine won’t run efficiently.
What to do:
Have the sensor inspected by our trained technicians.
Why it matters:
Ignoring this issue can lead to poor performance and reduced fuel efficiency.
Catalytic Converter Problems
What does it mean?
The catalytic converter reduces harmful exhaust emissions. It often fails when other engine problems are left unaddressed.
What to do:
Schedule service as soon as possible.
Why it matters:
This is one of the more expensive components to replace, and early detection can help prevent failure.
Bottom Line
With today’s busy schedules, it’s easy to delay addressing a check engine light—especially if your vehicle seems to be driving fine. However, while many check engine issues start small and inexpensive, ignoring them can turn a minor repair into a costly one.
If the check engine light stays on, it’s best to have your vehicle checked sooner rather than later.
Need to Book a Service Appointment?
From routine maintenance to major repairs, we’re here to deliver a service experience that’s simple, transparent, and stress-free - Contact our service department today!