The “Check Engine” light (also called the “Malfunction Indicator Light” or MIL) on your car’s dashboard is an indicator from your car’s On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) system. It lights up when the car’s computer detects an issue with the engine or emissions system.The “Check Engine” light serves as a warning that something in your car’s engine, transmission or emissions system is not working properly. The best way to diagnose the issue is by having a trained technician scan your vehicle with a vehicle specific scan tool to help identify the specific problem area. Depending on the severity of the issue, it could be something simple or something that needs immediate attention.

1. What mayTriggering the Check Engine Light?

• The light can turn on for a variety of reasons, ranging from minor issues like a loose gas cap to more serious problems like a failing catalytic converter or misfiring engine.
• When the system detects an issue that affects engine performance or emissions, it triggers the “Check Engine” light.

2. Common Reasons the Check Engine Light Comes On

• Loose or Damaged Gas Cap: The most common reason, and often a simple fix.
• Faulty Oxygen Sensor: This sensor monitors the level of oxygen in the exhaust gases. A bad oxygen sensor can lead to poor fuel efficiency and increased emissions.
• Catalytic Converter Issues: A malfunctioning catalytic converter can lead to reduced engine performance and increased emissions.
• Spark Plug/Coil Issues: Worn spark plugs or coils can cause engine misfires.
• Mass Airflow Sensor Problems: If this sensor fails, the engine may run poorly, affecting power and fuel economy.
• Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve Issues: If this valve gets clogged or fails, it can affect engine performance and emissions.
• Fuel Injector Problems: Dirty or failing fuel injectors can cause engine misfires or poor performance.

3. What to Do When the Check Engine Light Comes On

• Don’t Panic: A check engine light doesn’t always mean an emergency. However, ignoring it for too long can lead to bigger problems.
• Check for Other Symptoms: Is the car driving poorly? If you notice rough idling, lack of power, or strange noises, it’s best to have it checked soon.
• Don’t Ignore It: If the light stays on for a long time or if it starts flashing (indicating a serious issue), have the vehicle checked immediately.
• FLASHING CHECK ENGINE LIGHT: This condition however is potentially serious, we highly recommend not driving the vehicle and have it towed immediately during this condition.
• Call Elite Auto NY, Inc.: Set up an appointment to have your vehicle diagnosed

**MORE OFTEN THAN NOT HAVING YOUR VEHICLE DIAGNOSED FOR A CHECK ENGINE LIGHT AS SOON AS POSSIBLE RESULTS IN LESS COSTLY REPAIRS**

Please keep in mind vehicles with a check engine light will not pass New York State Inspections.

Elite Auto NY, Inc. prides itself in having some of the best diagnosticians in the business with an abundance of the proper scan tools, including many of the OEM tools, needed to diagnose the complex vehicles of today.