Do Not Ignore Your Check Engine Light
There you are, driving along, and you discover that your check engine light is on. There goes that sinking feeling in your stomach. What could be wrong?
Flashing engine lights are frustrating as they can signal any number of issues with your car. When all is running well with your vehicle, your engine light should light up when you switch your ignition on and go dark immediately thereafter. When your engine light either remains illuminated or suddenly goes on while you are driving, it usually indicates an issue with the engine management system. Get your car to a certified technician as soon as possible.
Get your check engine light checked if it abruptly starts flashing while you are driving. Experts recommend that you reduce your speed immediately until your check engine light stops flashing and stays lit constantly. If your check engine light keeps flashing, get your car to a repair shop right away. Do not ever ignore a flashing check engine light.
When your check engine light first goes on, pull over, turn off your car and leave it off for several minutes before restarting. This should allow your engine management system enough time to reset itself. You can still drive your car with the check engine light on so long as there are no other obvious engine problems, but you should still take your car in to your repair shop as soon as possible. A delay in proper check engine service could cause damage to your catalytic converter.
Whatever you do, do not take your car to an auto parts store that offers check engine light service. The employees can only translate the trouble codes for you, not repair the problem itself. For the best service, take your car to a certified technician. The time and expense is well worth it.