Light on dash meaning cracked#

This problem occurs if the cap is cracked or you forget to put it on.Īdditionally, the code can be set when you fill up with the engine running. If the gas cap isn’t sealed completely, it can set a code because of an EVAP leak. It may seem strange that a gas cap can cause the Check Engine Light to come on, but it happens often. In other cases, it could be due to a bad oxygen sensor, a dirty MAF sensor, intake vacuum leaks, a failing catalytic converter, fouled spark plugs, bad ignition coils, a failing battery or a bad alternator. Some Check Engine Light problems are simple, such as a leaking or loose gas cap. Do not drive further, or you could cause permanent damage to the engine. You should immediately pull over in a safe location to troubleshoot the car. On the other hand, if the Check Engine Light starts flashing, there’s a serious issue. However, you don’t want to put off running the codes to see what’s wrong. In most cases, you would be fine to continue driving home or to the repair shop. When the Check Engine Light comes on the dashboard solid (meaning it isn’t blinking), it means there is something that needs to be looked at as soon as possible. Today, everything is computerized, even to the point of dictating when the automatic transmission shifts. These systems are responsible for controlling and monitoring performance while regulating engine speed, ignition timing, and the air-fuel mixture. Since the 1980s, vehicles have been using an onboard diagnostics system. It also can be a picture of an engine, or have words, such as “Check Engine,” “ Service Engine Soon,” or “Check Powertrain.” It can come in different colors, like orange, yellow, or red. The Check Engine Light looks different in different car models. Issues can range from anything minor, such as a loose gas cap, to problems that are more severe, such as a failing sensor. The Check Engine Light indicates that the vehicle’s computer has recognized a fault that needs to be repaired.