The Check Engine light or Service Engine Soon is probably one of the most misunderstood of the dashboard lights. Some people erroneously think this light is letting them know they need to bring their vehicle in for an oil change. In actuality, the light is alerting you to a problem with your vehicle’s emissions system.
As you drive your vehicle, there is a computer-system that is going through some diagnostic tests. It’s referred to as the Onboard Diagnostic System (or OBD System), and is responsible for measuring and adjusting how the engine is responding to factors like speed, temperature, load, and air/fuel mixture.
This light is really quite helpful. That’s because, when it comes on, it is letting you know there is an issue with engine performance and emissions so you can have it fixed before it becomes a major engine repair problem. No need to worry. The ASE-certified technicians at Luke’s Auto Service in Verona, New Jersey, have the ability to diagnose and fix whatever is causing the Check Engine light or Service Engine Soon light to come on.
When a Check Engine light is on, you may be tempted to delay any repair work. Not every engine emissions problem that turns on the Checking Engine or Service Engine Soon warning light produces obvious signs. Many problems that turn this pesky light on are simple to fix, like a leaking hose or a loose or faulty gas cap. It’s much easier and more cost-effective to have a Check Engine or Service Engine Soon light problem identified and fixed now rather than later. If you delay having the problem fixed, you could end up causing more serious damage to the engine or the catalytic converter on your vehicle’s exhaust system.
Note: If the Check Engine light is flashing it means your vehicle needs immediate attention. The engine has a serious misfire that could damage the catalytic converter.
When the Check Engine Light Won’t Turn Off, Bring Your Vehicle to Luke’s Auto Service in Verona, NJ
More often than not, the Check Engine or Service Engine Soon light is coming on because of a loose or faulty gas cap. That’s easy enough to diagnose on your own. All you have to do is tighten or replace the gas cap and then drive around for a few days. If the light goes off, you found the culprit. If it doesn’t, bring your vehicle into our auto repair shop in Verona, New Jersey. We will complete a computer diagnostic engine test to find out what is causing the warning light to come on. Once we know the source of the problem, our ASE-certified technicians will get it fixed. Remember, delaying a repair can lead to major engine problems.