Your vehicle's check engine light is probably one of the most understood indicator lights on the dashboard. This is mainly because when the light comes on your vehicle is usually still running fine. Chances are that there is an underlying problem somewhere in your car that only a repair shop can diagnose. Usually these problems are simple and easy to fix. It could even be something so simple as a loose gas cap. You never know and that is why it can be so confusing to you.

Your vehicle's computer is constantly adjusting and monitoring dozens of components, sensors and devices so that your vehicle continues to ride well. It works hard to monitor your vehicle's engine. So even though everything seems fine with the vehicle, the computer senses some kind of problem. When the computer senses that problem it sends out the warning light alert and possibly stores a fault code in the computer's memory which is used for diagnosing the problem.

If your check engine light does comes on, here are some tips from a certified ASE Master Technician on what to do.

1. "Look for a serious problem that requires immediate attention." Check your dashboard for any other light indicators such as low oil pressure or overheating. If you have one of these conditions, you need to stop and pull over as soon as possible and shut the engine off. If all the rest if gauges read normal, it is most likely safe to drive your vehicle to the local repair shop to get it looked at.

2. "A blinking light means Stop Now!" If the check engine light is blinking pull over immediately and shut the engine off. Also, if you notice any driving problems, such as stalling, it's hard to accelerate or smoke coming from the tailpipe, pull over immediately and turn off the engine. Have your car towed to the local repair shop as soon as possible to prevent even more damage to your vehicle.

Even though the check engine light can be annoying at times, it really is there to help you. It makes y our vehicle more dependable and you can know that it is watching out for your vehicle. So next time you see that light come on, relax and just remember the tips from above and you can protect you and your vehicle.

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