Mazor says that an inexpensive check engine code reader could be useful for car owners even if they aren't mechanically inclined. Modern systems will display the code in an app on your smartphone. Do-it-yourselfers can buy code readers from an auto parts store or online that connect to the onboard diagnostics (OBD) port and search for the code's meaning on websites such as Engine Light Help. Your local mechanic can usually diagnose the problem for about an hour of labor.īut there's a way to preview what the problem might be. It is not an indicator of trouble like the check engine light is. The service required light just means the car is due for an oil change or other routine care. Some drivers might confuse the service required or maintenance required light on the gauge cluster for the check engine light. How to decipher the check engine light with a code reader In such cases, the light should go off by itself after a short time. It could be a temporary problem caused by a change in humidity or other factors. Occasionally, the check engine light comes on when nothing is wrong with the car, said Steve Mazor, retired chief automotive engineer for the Auto Club of Southern California. Reprogram powertrain control module (PCM): $109.22 Replace evaporative emissions (EVAP) canister purge control valve: $137.47ġ0. Inspect for loose fuel cap and tighten or replace: $24.84Ħ. Replace ignition coil(s) and spark plug(s): $392.65ĥ. For 2023, CarMD's top 10 check engine codes are:ġ. Most common reasons why the check engine light comes onĬarMD, an automotive telematics company, publishes an annual Vehicle Health Index that compiles the 10 most common check engine codes, along with their estimated cost of repair. Brief history of the check engine light.Possible false flags from a check engine code.How to decipher the check engine light with a code reader.Most common reasons why the check engine light comes on.In this article, we'll cover the top reasons why a check engine light comes on and determine a course of action for this scenario. These emissions devices operate at high temperatures to cut emissions but can pose a fire hazard if faulty. If the light begins flashing, however, it indicates a more serious problem, such as a misfire that can quickly overheat the catalytic converter. In many cases, it means that you'll be visiting the car dealer to repair the issue and get the light turned off.Ĭheck engine lights come in orange, yellow or amber, depending on the manufacturer. The light could be a minor issue, such as a faulty gas cap, or it could mean something more serious, such as a misfiring engine. The check engine light - more formally known as the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) - is a signal from the car's engine computer that something is wrong.
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