Is it OK to drive car with engine light on?
Can you drive a car with the engine light on? It’s okay to drive for a few miles, but be sure to schedule an inspection of the engine as soon as possible. If the check engine light comes on while you’re driving, don’t panic! Pay attention and see if the car is driving any differently than normal.
How serious is a check engine light?
Your Check Engine Light may be indicating a simple problem that’s easy to fix—such as a loose gas cap that needs to be replaced. A flashing Check Engine Light indicates that your vehicle’s engine is in serious trouble, whereas a steadily lit one means less urgent service is needed.
What do I do if my check engine light comes on?
What to Do About the Check Engine Light
- Look for a serious problem that requires immediate attention. Check your dashboard gauges and lights for indications of low oil pressure or overheating.
- Try tightening your gas cap.
- Reduce speed and load.
- Use built-in diagnostic services, if available.
Is it safe to drive with the Check Engine light on?
It could also mean your catalytic converter has given up the ghost. The check engine light means there’s a problem somewhere in your emissions system. Regardless, you’re safe to drive for now as long as the car isn’t performing strangely. Just have the check engine light checked and the problem repaired.
What does the Check Engine light look like?
Every car has an assortment of car warning lights on the dashboard and they all have a different meaning. The check engine light is easily identified. It looks like an engine and typically includes words such as “check.” Usually yellow or red.
What should you do if your check engine light is flashing?
Step 1: Check engine light is flashing. The check engine light is typically a yellow or red engine shaped icon situated in the middle of your vehicle dashboard, behind the driving wheel. If it’s flashing for more than 6 seconds, that is potentially an emergency situation. Step 2: Stop driving. Safely pull over.
What does the service required light on your car mean?
These warning lights are unrelated. The service required light just means the car is due for an oil change or other routine care. It is not an indicator of trouble like the check engine light is.