What does it mean when the dashboard shows the engine symbol?
2 Answers
The dashboard displaying the engine symbol indicates an engine malfunction. This is an engine fault warning light, alerting the driver to promptly address the issue at a 4S shop. There are several reasons why the engine symbol might appear on the dashboard, such as a faulty sensor in the engine, an electronic system malfunction, or the use of poor-quality fuel. When the engine symbol appears on the dashboard, it is necessary to visit a professional repair shop or a 4S shop to use a diagnostic scanner to read the fault code, which helps in accurately identifying the problem location for repair. Additionally, if the car requires 95-octane gasoline but 92-octane is used instead, it can easily cause engine knocking. Once detected by the ECU, the engine fault light will illuminate on the dashboard.
I encountered this issue recently when the engine light on the dashboard came on, which was quite puzzling. I remember I was driving on the highway when the light flashed, so I pulled over to check. Most likely, the car's computer detected an issue with the engine, such as a faulty oxygen sensor, an emission system malfunction, or an ignition system error. Common causes include fuel impurities or aging spark plugs, which can also trigger it. If you keep driving with the light on, the engine may suffer excessive wear, leading to higher fuel consumption and potentially serious problems. It's recommended to use an OBD tool to read the fault codes or visit a repair shop immediately—don't wait for a minor issue to escalate. Safe driving is the top priority. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the air filter, can also help prevent such problems.
