Why did my check engine light flash 3 times?

Why did my check engine light flash 3 times?

It goes off after starting the car. It means that a misfire has been detected that is great enough to possibly cause perminant damage to your vehicles catalytic converters a quite pricey component. Repairs should be done at once to avoid more expensive damage.

What causes a blinking or flashing check engine light?

A blinking or flashing check engine light is always caused by misfires. However, it is not as simple as that because many different things can cause misfires. Here is a list of things that can cause a misfire, which may result in a blinking check engine light: Misfires on one or several cylinders (most common) Faulty spark plugs/Coils

Where does the Check Engine light come from?

Dan Ferrell writes about do-it-yourself car maintenance and repair. He has certifications in automation and control technology. The check engine light is part of your car’s on-board diagnostic (OBD) system. This system is operated by the electronic control module (ECM), which is your car’s computer.

How can I read the trouble codes on my car?

To read the trouble codes from the engine control unit, you need an OBD2 scanner. You can either drive your car to a workshop and let a mechanic read the trouble codes from the engine control unit, or you can also do it yourself if you have a scanner.

What does a check engine light on an OBD mean?

When the computer can’t correct the problem, and it doesn’t correct itself, the OBD system will store a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) in memory. This triggers the check engine light.

A blinking or flashing check engine light is always caused by misfires. However, it is not as simple as that because many different things can cause misfires. Here is a list of things that can cause a misfire, which may result in a blinking check engine light: Misfires on one or several cylinders (most common) Faulty spark plugs/Coils

Dan Ferrell writes about do-it-yourself car maintenance and repair. He has certifications in automation and control technology. The check engine light is part of your car’s on-board diagnostic (OBD) system. This system is operated by the electronic control module (ECM), which is your car’s computer.

Where do I find the trouble code on my Check Engine?

Once you see the check engine light illuminate on your dash panel, you can retrieve the trouble codes. On pre-1996 vehicles, you’ll find different procedures to retrieve the codes. With some models, for example, you can use a code reader—available at most auto parts stores—or an analog voltmeter.

What does a 02 mean on a check engine light?

For example, a “02” means the computer detected low input in the mass air flow sensor circuit. Once you see the check engine light illuminate on your dash panel, you can retrieve the trouble codes. On pre-1996 vehicles, you’ll find different procedures to retrieve the codes.