The check engine light in your vehicle will let you know when there is an issue somewhere in the car. The name is a little deceptive as the light is not limited to the engine and could be related to one of many sensors acting up in the vehicle. An engine light check by your local dealership or any garage with the correct software for your car can help determine the cause of the light and if repairs are necessary. However, having the system checked somewhere is vital.

What To Do When The CEL Comes On

A check engine light, or CEL, can be a little scary because it often makes people feel like their car is about to break down. However, in most situations, the light is a warning to tell you something needs checking, and you should take your car in for an engine light check. 

When you take your car to the repair shop, the technician will use a computer to check the error codes in the computer and diagnose the problem that caused the light to come on. Many engine codes can trigger a CEL activation in some vehicles, so figuring out why the light is on is sometimes challenging.

The engine management, fuel system, exhaust system, and components can cause warnings. Replacing parts to fix the problem is often ineffective and expensive, but a full scan of the system will help pinpoint the problem and streamline the repair process. 

Handheld Scanners

There are handheld scanners available to consumers that allow you to do your own engine light check, but they can be less accurate than the systems used in a garage. The number of codes that can come up during the scan can be overwhelming with these inexpensive units, and often one code will give a vague indication of a problem.

One example is a code for an EVAP system warning. This code can apply to vacuum leaks in the engine, fuel system problems, or a loose gas gap allowing air into the system. Sometimes a gasket or o-ring will fix the issue, but other times the issue is much bigger, and sorting it out from generic codes can be challenging. 

Having the dealer do an engine light check will often net more detailed information that the service tech can use to pinpoint the problem precisely. Some dealers or garages will scan the system for you and let you know what is wrong, allowing you to make the repairs yourself. However, even the detailed scan will have some ambiguity that can make physical inspection necessary before replacing any parts.  

For more information, contact a local company like All German Auto.