Most drivers experience a sense of fear when they see the service engine light illuminate on the dash. Now they are in a quandary. Should they go straight to an engine repair shop, or is it okay to go on to work or school? Understanding what causes the service engine light to come on can help alleviate some of their fear. The important concern is to make sure that long-term engine damage isn’t taking place that will result in a costly engine repair, and that your vehicle remains safe to drive.
The most common issue that causes the service engine light to come on is a loose, cracked or faulty gas cap that is allowing fuel to evaporate. Pull over if you can (or keep going until you arrive at your destination) and make sure your gas cap is on tight. If this was the trigger, your check engine light should go off within 10 or 20 miles later.
But, there are several other issues that can trigger that little yellow warning light to come on:
- A damaged vacuum hose
- Damaged ignition coil(s)
- Failing catalytic converter
- Worn out spark plugs.
A check engine light rarely signals anything disastrous. Although it’s okay to keep driving for a few more miles or days, the smart thing to do is get your car into your auto shop as soon as possible to avoid a potential costly engine rebuild. Today’s modern vehicles now have an onboard diagnostic system that provides a code identifying the specific issue at hand. Most auto shops have the technology available to help them diagnose the problem quickly. Don’t put off scheduling an inspection.
Wondering what causes the service engine light to come on? Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about engine repair and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE and Doniphan, NE.
Most drivers experience a sense of fear when they see the service engine light illuminate on the dash. Now they are in a quandary. Should they go straight to an engine repair shop, or is it okay to go on to work or school? Understanding what causes the service engine light to come on can help alleviate some of their fear. The important concern is to make sure that long-term engine damage isn’t taking place that will result in a costly engine repair, and that your vehicle remains safe to drive.
The most common issue that causes the service engine light to come on is a loose, cracked or faulty gas cap that is allowing fuel to evaporate. Pull over if you can (or keep going until you arrive at your destination) and make sure your gas cap is on tight. If this was the trigger, your check engine light should go off within 10 or 20 miles later.
But, there are several other issues that can trigger that little yellow warning light to come on:
- A damaged vacuum hose
- Damaged ignition coil(s)
- Failing catalytic converter
- Worn out spark plugs.
A check engine light rarely signals anything disastrous. Although it’s okay to keep driving for a few more miles or days, the smart thing to do is get your car into your auto shop as soon as possible to avoid a potential costly engine rebuild. Today’s modern vehicles now have an onboard diagnostic system that provides a code identifying the specific issue at hand. Most auto shops have the technology available to help them diagnose the problem quickly. Don’t put off scheduling an inspection.
Wondering what causes the service engine light to come on? Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about engine repair and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE and Doniphan, NE.
