What does the engine symbol on the car dashboard mean?
2 Answers
The engine symbol displayed on the car dashboard indicates an engine fault. Possible causes include a malfunctioning air flow sensor or oxygen sensor, faulty spark plugs or ignition coils, dirty engine cylinders, carbon deposits causing engine knocking, or poor gasoline combustion. The exact cause needs to be diagnosed at an after-sales repair shop using specialized equipment to read the fault code. Ways the engine symbol appears on the dashboard and solutions: 1. There are several ways the engine fault light can illuminate: steady yellow light, flashing yellow light, steady red light, or flashing red light. If the red light is on, immediately go to a 4S shop for inspection and repair as the fault is severe. If the yellow light is on, the fault may not affect driving but should still be checked as soon as possible. 2. The car can read the fault code through the OBD interface using a computer. If you are interested in the vehicle's mechanical and electronic systems, you can purchase a Bluetooth module for the OBD interface to view and clear fault codes using a laptop or Android phone.
As a veteran driver with twenty years of experience, I must say that the engine light coming on is no small matter. It's called the Check Engine Light, indicating that the computer has detected a fault in the engine system. Common causes include issues with emission control, a malfunctioning oxygen sensor, or faulty spark plugs. I remember once when my car's light came on, it turned out to be a loose gas cap causing a leak—a minor issue. But if ignored, it could escalate into engine wear or a dramatic increase in fuel consumption, leading to expensive repairs. For safety, it's advisable to pull over immediately and check if the gas cap is loose, then head to a repair shop to scan the trouble codes with an OBD tool to diagnose the cause. Preventive measures include regular maintenance, such as inspecting engine components every six months, cleaning the intake system, and keeping the air filter clean to reduce the risk of unexpected light activation. In short, don't take it lightly—this issue affects both vehicle performance and daily safety.
