What to Do When the "Check Engine" Light Goes On

By: Joe Thompson

Sometimes, warning lights get people all frazzled and lose
control of the whole situation. Experts in the field of driving,
automobiles, and driving safety say that people should not panic
when this kind of thing happens to you.

If you notice that the "check engine" warning light suddenly
appears and alerts you, what do you exactly do? First, do not
panic and calm yourself down. It may become the very reason for
you to get into further trouble or accidents. The truth is,
these "check engine" warning lights could actually mean a couple
of things. So there is no need to panic. Remaining calm and
collected would keep you in control of the situation.

The "check engine" warning light is a part of the car's system
and onboard diagnostics. This is the computer part of the car
that monitors and controls the performance of your vehicle. It
also oversees the car's engine speed, ignition timing, fuel
mixture, and the like. The warning light comes on when this
computer detects something that is not correct.

What would be the best defense when the "check engine" warning
light comes on? It would be your owner's manual. Be sure that
you have read and understood important details of your owner's
manual. That way, you can check what the warning light is trying
to tell you.

Once the warning light comes on, try to pull over first. Then
try to look for signs of serious car problems that need your
immediate attention. Check the gauges. Your car may be just
overheating or there might be a low oil pressure.

It may be a very simple solution however it would help if you
try to tighten your gas cap. For most cars, if the gas cap is
not tightened enough, the "check engine" warning light goes on.

Try reducing your speed and the load of your vehicle. The loss
of power could actually trigger the "check engine" warning light
to go on. Or you can also try slowing down, or remove any
accessories that need the power of your engine.

If, however, despite your efforts at trying to check what could
be the problem and still you cannot find the source or the
problem itself, go to the nearest professional mechanic or
technician. By doing such, you are entrusting your vehicle to
people who have been trained and have the knowledge on such
situations.

If there are some parts that need changing, you can always go
online and find impressive parts and durable auto parts like
Scion parts from Auto Parts
Discount. They hold quality
Scion parts like Scion wheel covers, oxygen sensors and co
rner lights among many others.

About the author:
Joe Thompson is the owner of a successful auto body shop in
Ferndale, California. This 38 year old is also a prolific
writer, contributing automotive related articles to various
publications.