What To Do When Your Check Engine Light Comes On
A reliable vehicle is a necessity for many modern Americans. Without a functional car or truck, it would be difficult to travel from point A to point B with ease.
Your vehicle communicates with you via a series of indicator lights on the dashboard. The light that most drivers are familiar with is the "check engine" light. A check engine light that suddenly illuminates could signal a wide range of troubles within your car or truck.
Regardless of the cause of the illuminated light, it's critical that you never ignore your check engine light.
Pay Attention to Your Vehicle's Performance
Since a check engine light can signal a wide range of problems, it's important that you pay close attention to your car's performance as soon as the check engine light appears.
If you don't notice any significant performance changes, it's probably safe to drive your vehicle to an auto parts shop or mechanic for further diagnosis.
A check engine light that is accompanied by overheating, strange noises or smells, or the emission of smoke or vapors from the engine bay is likely letting you know that your car has a serious problem.
You should pull off the road as soon as it is safe to do so, then contact a tow truck to help you transport your vehicle to a mechanic for further evaluation.
Invest in an Electronic Scan
Most modern vehicles generate an electronic code whenever a check engine light turns on. This code corresponds with a unique issue that has been detected inside the engine bay.
Most auto parts stores have a scanner that you can use to check your vehicle's code list free of charge. There will be a specialized receiver underneath your car's dashboard, and the scanner plugs directly into this receiver.
The scan is completed with the push of a button, and a list of each code and the associated meaning can be printed for you at the store's register.
An electronic scan will help you identify what triggered your check engine light so that you can arrange for the necessary repairs.
Make an Appointment With Your Mechanic
You should always have a mechanic look at your car when the check engine light comes on.
The code that is triggered by the light may only be the tip of the iceberg when it comes to your vehicle's engine issues. A mechanic will be able to evaluate your vehicle's mechanical components as a whole to determine what repairs must be made to prevent additional damage in the future.
For more information, contact a company like All German Auto.