What Causes the Engine Malfunction Light to Turn On and Then Off?
2 Answers
The reasons for the engine malfunction light turning on and then off can vary based on actual circumstances, including the following scenarios: 1. The vehicle's self-check function is in operation: If the engine malfunction light turns on briefly and then off when the vehicle's power is turned on before starting the car, and other warning lights such as those for coolant temperature, battery, and airbags behave similarly, this is a normal situation. This occurs because the vehicle's self-check function is running. 2. The engine malfunction light turns on and off while driving: If this happens while driving, the driver should observe whether the engine shows any abnormalities. If the engine malfunction light does not come on again, it is likely a false alarm. However, if the engine malfunction light intermittently turns on and off, the driver should pull over safely, turn off the engine, and restart the vehicle. If the engine malfunction light continues to exhibit this behavior, it is advisable to visit a 4S shop or repair facility for inspection as soon as possible.
It's quite common on the road when the engine malfunction light comes on and then turns off by itself. I think the reasons are mostly temporary fault signals, such as occasional sensor malfunctions sending error reports—like the oxygen sensor falsely reporting high values when the fuel is dirty, or deviations in the air flow meter readings. Electrical issues are also common, like loose connectors causing poor contact due to bumps, or large voltage fluctuations triggering a warning. Don’t panic too much; it’s often a minor issue that may reset automatically upon the next startup. However, be alert to potential risks, such as intermittent alarms in the early stages of fuel system blockages. It’s advisable to pay attention to fuel quality daily and use higher-grade gasoline to reduce sensor misoperations. Use an OBD scanner to check the error codes, which helps trace historical records. I remember once when my light flickered during a night drive, it turned out to be carbon buildup in the fuel injectors—cleaning it early saved me repair costs.
