Fehlman Brother Automotive Inc. Serving Syracuse's Automotive Needs For Nearly 80 Years!

What Is Your "Check Engine" Light Telling You?

The most vital components to a properly functioning vehicle is the 'Check Engine' light. It alerts you to a variety of potential problems based on your vehicle's on board diagnostic system. When you see the 'Check Engine' light come on, it means there one or more systems in your vehicle, including your ignition, fuel injection or emission control that are not operating at peak performance, even if it appears your vehicle is running normally.

A glowing 'Check Engine' light doesn't mean you have to immediately pull the over to the side of the road, but it does mean you should get your vehicle checked out as soon as possible. However if you choose to ignore the warning light you could severely damage engine components and incur additional repair expenses. If your 'Check Engine' light comes on, first check the gas cap and make sure it is on tight. Leaving it loose after refueling can sometimes trigger the 'Check Engine' light. If the cap was loose, the light should go out after a few short trips.

If the gas cap wasn't the problem and the light remains on, have the system checked out soon. A light that is flashing requires a more prompted response, as it is indicating a more severe condition that must be checked out immediately to prevent damage to the catalytic converter. If you see a flashing light, minimize driving at high speeds or under heavy loads.

When making an appointment for service on your vehicle, make sure the automotive shop that diagnoses you vehicle has professional technicians who are properly trained and certified for OBDII diagnosis and repair. The technician will connect your vehicle's computer to a diagnostic computer, which will provide a 'trouble' code indicating why the 'Check Engine' light was activated. While connected to your vehicle the diagnostic computer allows the technician to check the idle speed, throttle response, engine temperature, fuel system pressure, manifold vacuum, exhaust emission levels and many other key indicators. Once the problem is diagnosed and fixed your car's computer makes sure everything is back to normal, and turns off the 'Check Engine' light.

Reading your vehicle owner's manual and familiarizing yourself with the purpose of the 'Check Engine' light and other gauge and warning indicators on your dashboard, is the best way to try and avoid costly repairs. If you have any questions, please give us a call at 463-5888, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.