Skiles Automotive understands how intimidating the check engine light can be for most car owners. There’s no need to be afraid of that light and what it means, though. Sometimes the issue is simple, but if you need more help, we’re here for you.
Don’t Panic and Don’t Ignore the Light
Your first impulse when you see the check engine light come on is probably to panic a bit. That’s normal, but it isn’t going to help. You also need to make sure you don’t ignore the light. Sometimes the engine light comes on because there’s something big happening. More often, though, the engine light comes on because there’s something going on that can become a big issue soon. Ignoring the light makes that far more likely to happen.
Check Your Gas Cap First
One of the tiny issues that you can do something about right away is to check your gas cap. If your gas cap isn’t tightened down exactly enough, the gas can evaporate out and that’s a problem. There are sensors that alert your car’s onboard computer that the cap isn’t tight enough, and that’s what triggers the check engine light. Twist the cap until it clicks a few times and that should be tight enough.
Then Look for Anything That Isn’t Right
Assuming the gas cap isn’t your answer, what else doesn’t feel or look right? Double check the dashboard and see if there are any other warning lights or indicators that can help you to narrow down what’s happening. Check things like oil pressure and engine temperature, too. There’s likely a section in your car’s owner’s manual that is devoted just to the check engine light. Read through that section to see what else might have switched that light on.
Don’t Wait to Get More Help
You do have a ticking clock, here. If you’re not finding the answer fairly quickly on your own, you’re going to need the help of an experienced technician who can do diagnostic testing for you. There are lots of different potential causes, and the longer that you drive around with the check engine light on, the worse the situation can get.
Your check engine light doesn’t have to be a massive, expensive repair. Contact us at Skiles Automotive in Bremen, IN to set up an appointment. We’ll find out what is causing your check engine light to come on and get your car repaired quickly and professionally.
