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There are many reasons that a persons check engine light may come on. In reality there are likely 50-60 reasons that your check engine light may come on and it can range in seriousness from something as simple as forgetting to put your gas cap back on to your engine just being all out toast. The main reason that your check engine light is a crap shoot is that it can come on for so very many reasons.
I am no mechanic but I do know that the smartest thing that a person can do when the check engine light comes on is to be aware enough to know that most of your auto parts stores have the proper equipment to get the right code to tell you what is wrong and that way you know exactly what you need to have fixed or fix yourself. All of the newest cars have what is called an electronic control module. This controls all of the functions of your engine and transmission this is a necessary part as the ever growing need for lower emissions and better gas mileage. This also introduces an entire new set of things that can bring about the flashing of this irritating little light. The reality is that in all likelihood you could easily drive your car forever with the check engine light on but it would effect your gas mileage and the performance of your car so get it checked.

Learn more about this author, Sherry Bentley-Short.
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