What to Do When the Engine Fault Light Comes On?
2 Answers
When the engine fault light comes on, first check if the car can still be driven. Here are the relevant situations and corresponding solutions: 1. The car cannot start: This may be caused by a fuel pump or ignition component failure. Solution: Call for assistance immediately. 2. The fault light is on, but the car drives normally: This could be due to a faulty sensor. Solution: You can continue driving temporarily, but it's best to drive at low speed and visit a repair shop as soon as possible. 3. The fault light is on, the car can be driven, but there are severe symptoms like shaking or lack of acceleration: This may be due to issues with the intake/exhaust valve clearance, fuel vapor control solenoid valve, EGR valve cylinder condition, or intake manifold. Solution: Stop the car immediately and call for roadside assistance.
When the warning light comes on, I know there might be an issue with the engine. Commonly known as the check engine light, it can illuminate for various reasons—from something as simple as a loose fuel cap to more complex problems like an oxygen sensor malfunction or even an issue with the emissions system. I remember one time when the light suddenly turned on while I was driving. I immediately slowed down and pulled over to check. If there's noticeable shaking or unusual smells, never force the car to keep running—safety comes first. Make it a habit to check if the fuel cap is tightened properly, as this often turns out to be a false alarm. However, if the light stays on continuously, it's best to visit a repair shop and use an OBD scanner to read the trouble codes and identify the exact issue. Ignoring it for too long can lead to more expensive repairs later.
