11 Jun Listen to Your Car – Don’t Ignore the Check Engine Light

While cars can’t speak to us, they do their best to tell us when something is wrong through the lights on the dashboard. Some vehicle owners may choose to ignore those signals when they come on, but it’s important to always listen to what your car is telling you.

For example, we often hear about the tire pressure light coming on at the start of winter. Your tires may have been checked not too long ago, however, freezing temps cause pressure fluctuation. A change in tire pressure is a natural reaction that can be monitored with routine checks. It may not be an emergency fix, but it’s good to stay on top of it.

Some choose to see the engine light turning on in the same way.

When the engine light comes on, you shouldn’t ignore it. Other dash indicators are not as general with their reasoning for being on, but that just makes it even more important to find the problem. Generally, the engine light comes on for the following:

• Faulty oxygen sensor
• Catalytic converter
• Misfiring spark plugs
• Damaged mass airflow sensor
• Failing fuel pump
• Loose fuel cap

Without knowing how serious the issue is initially, it’s best to take your car in for a check-up. You could be paying hundreds more if you choose to ignore the light.