Let’s face it. Eventually, that little orange “check engine” light is going to come on as you’re driving down the road. While it’s important not to panic when this happens, you shouldn’t ignore the light either. Let’s talk about what you should do.
Check Your Gas Cap
Your car’s “check engine” light can signal something as simple as a loose gas cap, especially if you’ve just filled the tank. Try tightening your gas cap and make sure the cap isn’t cracked or otherwise broken. You might need to replace the gas cap but, luckily, this isn’t a significant expense.
Check Your Gauges
If tightening or replacing the gas cap doesn’t solve the problem, your “check engine” light could indicate something more serious. Make sure that your gauges don’t indicate that your car’s oil is too low or that your vehicle is overheating. If your gauges suggest either of these issues, you should find a safe spot to pull over and shut the car off as soon as possible.
Reduce Weight
If your “check engine” light comes on when you’re using your vehicle tow, you should stop towing as soon as possible. You could be exceeding your vehicle’s towing capacity, which could stress out your engine and other car components. It’s best to have your vehicle inspected to make sure there isn’t signifcant damage.
These are just some of the steps you should take when your “check engine” light comes on. By being an alert driver, you can extend the life of your car for years to come.
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