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In 1996, an orange light on your car’s dashboard labeled “Check Engine” or “Service Engine Soon” became standard on all car makes and models. The light tells you there’s a problem with your car’s engine and powertrain control system.
Why Do I Need This Service?
An illuminated “Check Engine” or “Service Engine Soon” light indicates a problem detected by your car’s onboard diagnostic system (OBD). The light cannot indicate the exact nature of the problem – only the right training and diagnostic equipment can do that.
Typical Service
- A flashing light indicates a problem that is currently happening and may require immediate attention, whereas a steady light can be diagnosed at the first convenient opportunity.
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- A technician connects a “scan tool” to your car’s onboard diagnostic system to determine the problem.
- Once the problem is pinpointed, repairs are made and the light is reset.
Questions To Ask
- Does the light mean my car needs a tune-up?
- When checking out the cause of the light, are there any other services that need to be performed at the same time?
- Is it normal for the light to come on briefly when I start my car?
- What happens if I just ignore the light?
- Will the light eventually turn off by itself?
- Will my car pass an emissions test if the light is on?
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