Can I drive when the car maintenance light is on?

[Shawn]

You can drive when the car maintenance light is on, but you should get maintenance done as soon as possible. Car maintenance mainly includes the engine system, transmission system, air conditioning system, cooling system, fuel system, power steering system, and other maintenance scopes. The purpose of car maintenance is to keep the vehicle clean and tidy, maintain normal technical conditions, eliminate hidden dangers, prevent failures, slow down the deterioration process, and extend the service cycle. Changing the engine oil is a common maintenance item. The engine oil mainly plays a lubricating role, and because it has a lifespan, it needs to be replaced regularly. The oil filter, also known as the oil purifier, functions to remove various impurities from the engine oil and ensure the normal operation of the lubrication system. The oil filter should be replaced together with the engine oil during an oil change.

[LeColton]

I drive an old car, and when the maintenance light comes on, I first check the cause myself. It might be time for an oil change or other routine checks. If I need to drive, I can still go a short distance, like to the nearest repair shop, but I avoid driving for too long. Last time I ignored it, the engine started making strange noises, and after inspection, the oil had turned black—almost damaging the engine. So now, as soon as the light comes on, I schedule maintenance right away to avoid costly repairs. I make it a habit to keep maintenance records and set reminders on my phone to prevent forgetting. Overall, driving is fine—safety first—just handle it promptly. Don’t delay, especially on long trips, as ignoring the light increases the risk of breakdowns.

[Yvette]

When the maintenance light comes on, my approach is to schedule service as soon as possible. This light serves as a reminder, warning you that service time is approaching, such as an oil change or brake inspection. For short-term driving, like daily commutes, it's generally fine, but continuing to drive for more than a week may harm the car's performance. I've experienced increased fuel consumption and rapid engine temperature rise after the light came on. Breaking down on the highway would be a real hassle. Regularly checking fluids and tire pressure helps prevent such issues. I recommend keeping the owner's manual handy—it explains the reasons and priorities when the light appears. Safety first; don't take it lightly. Acting promptly ensures peace of mind.

[JuneRose]

When the maintenance light comes on, I have to take action immediately. It usually indicates that routine maintenance is due, such as an oil check or filter replacement. You can still drive the car for short commutes without immediate issues, but delaying for more than a few days isn't advisable. Long-term neglect may lead to engine wear or electrical problems. I recommend checking the manual first to confirm the specific alert before deciding whether to address it right away. Stopping driving as soon as the light comes on is too conservative, but driving for too long without repairs carries high risks. Prevention is key—regularly checking fluids yourself saves time and ensures safety. In short, short trips are fine, but get maintenance done promptly to prevent potential hazards.