It May Just Be a Loose Gas Cap, But Get That Check Engine Light Checked Out
Do not put off a visit to your favorite repair shop if your check engine light suddenly goes on. A check engine light can illuminate for reasons as minor as a loose gas cap or as serious as a malfunctioning engine. A check engine light usually indicates that the onboard diagnostics check has discovered an improperly working component that must be taken care of immediately to avoid permanent damage to your system. Ignore it at your peril.
In late model cars, the check engine light behaves differently depending on the severity of the problem. If your check engine light starts blinking or turns red, the issue is so critical that immediate attention is needed. A steadily illuminated check engine light indicates a non emergency that should be checked out as soon as possible. However, do not ever take your car to an auto parts store to have your check engine light checked out. Auto parts shop employees are not qualified to do anything beyond interpreting the trouble codes. For service done right, see your certified technician.
Minor issues like a loose gas cap, bad spark plug wires or moisture in the engine can trigger a check engine light. If your light indicates a non emergency, first check your gas cap and then your engine for wetness before taking your car in for repairs. Engines will misfire if spark plug wires wear down; give them a look as well. Wire replacement may be all that is required to make things right again.
When you first go in to the shop, your certified repair technician will perform a scan test for stored trouble codes and test your sensors and components to eliminate possible sources of the problem. Diagnosis and repair can, in many cases, take place within the same day.