You Flirt With Disaster If You 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?
A flashing checking engine light is frustrating as the check engine light could signal a number of different issues. 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. An engine light that remains illuminated or goes on without warning while you are driving usually indicates an issue with your engine management system. Get in 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 the check engine light keeps flashing, take your car in to a repair shop as soon as you can. 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 give your engine management system enough time to reset. It is safe to drive your car with the check engine light on so long as no other engine problems are apparent, but you must still get your car to your repair shop for a checkup 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 are trained only to translate the trouble codes, not to repair the problem itself. For the best service, take your car to a certified technician. It is well worth the time and expense.