How long can you go with a check engine light on?

When the check engine light is solid, you can typically drive the car for hundreds of miles without an issue. Of course, that depends on which code is stored in the vehicle’s computer. If an engine sensor is faulty, the car will usually use made up sensor values to keep running.

How long can I ignore check engine light?

The dreaded check engine light. Now, it wasn’t flashing, which I knew meant the problem was urgent. But how bad was the news going to be? A new study found that the average person will wait 9 days after seeing that light pop on before taking their vehicle in to see what is wrong.

Can I drive my car with the service engine light on?

If the check engine light comes on while you’re driving, it can be unnerving. Don’t panic, though. The check engine light means there’s a problem somewhere in your emissions system. Regardless, you’re safe to drive for now as long as the car isn’t performing strangely.

Is a check engine light urgent?

Unlike a Temperature or Oil Pressure light, a Check Engine light is usually not an urgent, “Stop right now or you may cause permanent damage!” type of situation, unless it is flashing. If your gas cap is loose or the seal is not tight, the vapor leakage can cause your fuel system to trigger the check engine light.

What could it mean if your check engine light comes on?

The check engine light — more formally known as the malfunction indicator lamp — is a signal from the car’s engine computer that something is wrong. If the light begins flashing, however, it indicates a more serious problem, such as a misfire that can quickly overheat the catalytic converter.

Can I reset check engine light myself?

You can reset the check engine light without disconnecting the battery by using an OBD2 scanner. If you drive long enough after fixing the problem, most car models’ check engine light will go away by itself.

What should I do if my service engine light comes on?

First, you should check your repair manual in your car in order to decipher what exactly the service engine light means in your specific model. Next, check all fluid levels in your vehicle – this includes fluids in the engine, brakes, wipers, and coolant.

Is it safe to drive with the Check Engine light on?

Otherwise, you risk damaging your car. If the check engine light is on and steady (not flashing), you can keep driving as long as the car isn’t performing strangely. How is it handling? Driving straight or wonky?

When does the Check Engine light turn off on a car?

The check engine light only turns off when the emissions computer detects that a fault no longer exists. In fact the computer double and sometimes even triple checks the emissions trouble before deciding that in fact the fault is fixed.

What does it mean when your car says service engine soon?

The service engine soon light means that there is a minor problem with the electronics or the engine of your car. Some manufacturers are using it as a Check engine light for minor issues. It could also mean that it is time for a scheduled service, like time for oil or spark plug replacement.