Why does the car engine fault light come on when the engine is not started?
3 Answers
When the car's engine is not started and the engine fault light is on, this is a normal self-check, indicating that the engine is not yet working. Before the car is ignited, the car will enter a self-check state, and this light (the engine fault light) will come on. After the car starts normally, the light will turn off. Additional information: 1. The engine fault light is the one on the dashboard that looks a bit like a pipe from Super Mario. If you drive normally and maintain the car regularly, the engine generally won't have major issues. 2. If the engine fault light remains on after the vehicle starts, it indicates a problem with the engine's working condition. Possible causes include poor fuel quality, carbon buildup in the engine, or clogged fuel lines. It is advisable to visit a car repair shop as soon as possible or, if the car is still under warranty, go to a 4S shop for a prompt inspection.
As a car owner who frequently drives, I have encountered similar situations. When the warning light is on without the car starting, it indicates that the vehicle's electronic system has detected an issue during self-check. The most common reasons are insufficient battery power or aging, which prevents the engine from starting; the alternator could also be problematic, as it is responsible for charging the battery—if the belt is loose or the alternator is faulty, the light will stay on. Additionally, poor wiring connections or sensor malfunctions, such as a damaged crankshaft position sensor, can trigger the warning. From personal experience, the last time my car had this issue, it turned out to be oxidized battery terminals causing poor contact, which was resolved after cleaning. My advice is to first check the battery voltage—if it’s below 12 volts, recharge or replace it. If the problem persists, visit a professional repair shop as soon as possible to avoid being stranded on the road and wasting time. Developing a habit of regularly inspecting the battery can prevent many unexpected breakdowns.
As an amateur car enthusiast who loves tinkering with vehicles, I pay close attention to electrical system issues. When the engine is off and the warning light stays on, it usually indicates low battery voltage or alternator malfunction. If the belt is loose or lacks lubrication, it can't charge effectively. Additionally, blown fuses in the circuit or sensor failures like a faulty throttle position sensor may also trigger the light. When repairing my car, I use a multimeter to test voltage; readings below 10 volts mostly point to a dying battery. Wiring insulation deterioration causing short circuits is also common in older vehicles. For simple DIY solutions, first check if battery terminals are loose, then try replacing fuses. If the problem persists, don't hesitate to consult a mechanic - it's not worth compromising safety to save money. Remember to have technicians test the electrical system during routine maintenance and replace worn components preventively.
