What is the proper name for the check engine light?

The check engine light — more formally known as the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) — is a signal from the car's engine computer that something is wrong.

What is it called to check and see why your check engine light is on?

An OBD-II tool can read diagnostic trouble codes that communicate what is wrong with your car. AutoZone uses one of these in our Fix Finder service, the check engine light is scanned to find out what part you need to fix your car.

What is OBD check lamp?

CARS.COM — The check engine light on the dashboard is a warning that many vehicle owners dread. The check engine light is a signal that the onboard diagnostics system (or OBD II) has detected a malfunction in the vehicle's emissions, ignition, fuel or exhaust systems.

What is engine indicator?

An engine indicator is an instrument for graphically recording the pressure versus piston displacement through an engine stroke cycle. Engineers use the resulting diagram to check the design and performance of the engine. A mechanical indicator consists of a piston, spring, stylus, and recording system.

Why is my engine light on but nothing seems wrong?

If nothing seems to be acting strange, then it is probably safe to drive it until you can get it into a mechanic. Sometimes the light may come on after fueling if the gas cap is a little loose. Or it could mean your catalytic converter needs to be inspected.

Most Common Reasons Your Check Engine Light Is On

What is the most common cause of check engine light?

The top 25 repairs account for 62% of all check engine repairs in the United States. Replacing a faulty oxygen sensor — a sensor used to optimize a vehicle's fuel-to-air mixture to increase gas mileage and reduce emissions — is the most common cause for a check engine light.

How much is a code reader?

Our list of the best OBD2 Scanners includes units that range from $60 to $480.

How many miles can you drive with check engine light on?

If your Check Engine light comes on for any reason, it's still possible to drive your vehicle, but it is only recommended to drive another 50 to 100 miles before scanning your car's computer for error codes. This process allows you to identify the issue at hand and address it as you see fit.

What does a solid yellow check engine light mean?

The steady yellow light is telling you to take a look and fix the minor issue as soon as you can, but it's not usually serious. The flashing light means that your vehicle's engine is misfiring and you should investigate the problem immediately.

Can engine light go off on its own?

A check engine light will shut itself off if the condition that caused it is remedied. So, if your converter is marginal, and you did a lot of stop-and-go driving, which creates high demand for the converter, that may have turned on the check engine light.

Can you rent a code reader from AutoZone?

We can help you get a reading yourself. Borrow an OBD reader to get a Check Engine Light reading with the AutoZone Free Fix Finder Service. It's a simple task that takes less than two minutes.

Does O'Reilly scan codes for free?

If your vehicle is a 1996 or newer model year, head to your local O'Reilly Auto Parts store and ask a parts professional about a free Check Engine light diagnostic scan.

What is the difference between OBD and OBD2?

OBD2 refers to the second generation of the onboard diagnostic system. OBD or onboard diagnostics is the system in a car that controls and monitors all the important control devices, offering data access with the appropriate hardware and software.

How serious is check engine light?

Both a solid and flashing engine check light indicates that a problem has been detected. However, a flashing engine check light indicates that it is a serious problem that requires your immediate attention. If you see a flashing light, it's best to contact a mechanic as soon as possible to prevent serious damage.

What does orange engine light mean?

A flashing orange light means that there is a problem that could affect how the car drives or handles, such as an engine misfire. You might be able to feel your car shake, or the engine could suddenly sound different.

Can AutoZone turn off check engine light?

Wondering if the local Autozone can turn off a check engine light? The answer is yes, but… there are a couple things to remember: Local auto parts stores will typically offer to read your codes for free, but not all locations will clear the light due to liability issues.

Who checks check engine lights for free?

Where can I read car codes for free?

If you have a problem with your car and you don't know what it is, most auto part stores (such as AutoZone, Pep Boys and Advance Auto Parts) will provide a free diagnostic code reading. It is also called an OBD reading.

What does OBD stand for?

OBD II is an acronym for On-Board Diagnostic II, the second generation of on-board self-diagnostic equipment requirements for light- and medium-duty California vehicles.

Which OBD scanner is best?

Is FIXD a legit product?

Fixd user reviews are overall solid. If you go to Amazon, for instance, you'll find that the average rating from 726 user reviews is around 4.5 stars. What's more, Fakespot, which evaluates Amazon user reviews, gives the Fixd an A and has deemed just 10 percent of those reviews of low quality.

How long does it take for engine light to reset after gas cap?

As soon as it's safe, pull over and make sure your gas cap is tight. Once you're back on the road, your check engine light should go off within 10 or 20 miles.

Should I still get my car checked if the check engine light turned off?

No. My rule of thumb is to run a tank or two of gas through the car once the light comes on. If the light doesn't go off then I take it in. That many miles it most likely is one of the emissions control devices.

Why does my check engine light come on and off every few days?

There are several reasons the check engine light may be triggered: A loose, cracked, or faulty gas cap can cause fuel to evaporate, thus causing your check engine light. Make sure your gas cap is tight. If that is the problem, the check engine light should go off within 10 or 20 miles after you start driving again.