If it illuminates, have it checked out expediently. There are literally dozens, if not hundreds, of other reasons for the Check Engine Light to come on.

Engine timing problems, most commonly with variable valve timing.

Emissions-related sensors, such as oxygen sensors, have failed.

The gas cap was left loose when refuelling.

Common reasons for the Check Engine Light are: The Check Engine Light may not turn off as soon as it passes, and it may not even turn off until a technician clears the code even though there is no repair required at all. As the car’s systems run self-tests, it is possible that a test fails and the engine light comes on, and the next test passes. The reason for an engine light can be a risk of catastrophic failure or something requiring immediate attention, or it could be nothing at all. Common Reasons the Check Engine Light Comes On Get your car diagnosed, although the urgency isn’t the same as if the light was flashing at you. A solid Check Engine Light can mean something like a loose gas cap, or it can indicate a more in-depth problem like a fuel, timing, or transmission issue. If the engine light comes on solid, it may still be a reason for concern, however it doesn’t immediately need to strike fear in your heart. A flashing Check Engine Light is serious business. A technician needs to diagnose the concern at the absolute earliest convenience to prevent damage to your car. You may want to consider getting it towed to the shop. You need to find a safe place to pull over and turn your vehicle off.

If the engine light comes on and flashes, that indicates an immediate concern. There are two different ways the Check Engine Light can come on: solid or flashing. It could be an engine, transmission, or emissions system that didn’t pass the test. If a self test fails under certain parameters, your car’s Check Engine Light will come on. Most vehicle systems run self tests under certain operating conditions, and the results are reported to their respective control modules.

It’s shaped like a motor and is yellow in color. The Check Engine Light is also known as a malfunction indicator light. It only indicates that something isn’t working properly. It doesn’t tell you what the problem is a technician will have to perform a diagnostic scan to check the affected system. The Check Engine Light has one purpose: to tell you when you have a problem. Here’s everything you’ve wanted to know about the Check Engine Light: What the Check Engine Light Does When it illuminates, it's unclear if you should continue driving or get your car towed. The Check Engine Light has long puzzled drivers with its vague warning. Will this be something straightforward or will the repair bill put you in debt? It casts a shadow of doubt over your whole vehicle. There’s one little yellow light that strikes fear in the heart of every driver.

What causes check engine light to flash