Why Is the Check Engine Light On?

All drivers know that their check engine light is a warning sign
that something about the vehicle is not right. However, it can be difficult to
determine how serious the issue is, and what needs to be done about it. Southern California Ford Dealers
is here to shed some light on what the check engine light is trying to tell you
and give you some tips on how to go about handling the situation.
Any time a warning light illuminates, there is cause for
concern. The check engine light is the most generic of the standard warning
lights and can cover a broad spectrum of issues. However, there is only one way
to find out what the problem is regardless.
To understand what the check engine light is trying to tell
you, you must understand that the OBD (on-board diagnostic) system is
essentially a computer that reads a lot of various sensors in the vehicle. When
one of these sensors shows a reading that is unusual or out of specified parameters,
you will see a check engine light on.
Scanning for Codes
Once the check engine light has come on, you will need to
“scan” the vehicle’s OBD system to find out what sensor has set off the warning
light. Depending on the component or system that is having issues, you will
receive a particular code that pertains to that system. The code or codes, as
there may be more than one, will need to be interpreted. From there, testing
and diagnostics can be done to determine and verify exactly what is wrong.
How Serious Is the Check Engine Light?
Due to the fact the check engine light is a very generic
warning light, it can illuminate for a serious problem or a minor issue. If
more than one warning light turns on, such as the battery light or ABS light in
addition to the check engine light, you have a better idea of what might be
going wrong. Multiple warning lights illuminating together is a strong
indicator you need to pull over somewhere safe or head straight to a repair
center.
If a check engine light illuminates at start up or while
driving, but the vehicle is running normally, you may not have a serious matter
on your hands. Either way, you will want to get the engine codes read with a
scan tool as soon as possible. Only then will you truly know if you need to
seek help or make repairs immediately.
Color Coded Warning Lights
The warning lights on your dashboard are also color coded
for your convenience. Green warning lights are just informational indicators,
and do not actually mean something needs immediate attention. Yellow lights are
simply drawing your attention to a minor detail, while amber warning lights
start to indicate something more serious is happening. Red warning lights, such
as the check engine light, lets you know something needs your immediate attention
now.
Next time a check engine light turns on in your vehicle,
come see the professionals at your local Ford service center in Southern
California. Your car care and car maintenance specialists are ready to help you
make sense of any recent warnings that may have popped up on your dashboard.
Your local Ford dealers
are happy to answer all your questions or schedule your next service
appointment with us today. We service
all makes and models.
References:
None