What is the most likely action people take when the Check Engine light comes on? They completely ignore it because they don’t know what it means and are hoping it will just go away. It’s one of those things that causes fear in the hearts of Reno and Sparks drivers.

So, should we be urgent about a Check Engine light? Yes, you should take that little warning light very seriously. It could be a little or a significant issue, but there is always something wrong. If you ignore it and keep driving at the same high speeds you are asking for trouble. Worse yet, towing or hauling heavy loads with the Check Engine light on. Don’t worry, the professionals at Wayne’s Automotive Center in Sparks can help diagnosis the enormity of the issue.

Why Should I Bother?

If the light is glowing steadily, you should keep an eye on it for a day or two. If the check light doesn’t go off, schedule an appointment with your friendly and knowledgeable pros at Wayne’s Automotive Center to get it checked out. It’s better to address the issue early than later when there is a more significant problem.

Some more information on how the Check Engine light works may be helpful for Reno and Sparks drivers. A computer controls most of your engine functions, not surprisingly, called an engine control computer or CPU. The CPU can adjust many engine parameters for environmental conditions, engine condition, and even the way you drive.

The vehicle’s computer receives information from a network of sensors to provide data. The CPU knows the proper operating range values for each sensor. When a sensor reading is not within its normal range, the computer performs tests to diagnose possible issues and if a problem is present, will illuminate the vehicle’s Check Engine light.

A Simple Check Engine Light Example

Something that is very simple but could initiate this process is a loose or missing gas cap. A loose gas cap can send the readings for a sensor out its normal range. The computer doesn’t know if it’s a severe situation that caused the out of range reading or just a loose cap on the gas tank, so it stores a trouble code and turns on the Check Engine light.

Instantly by securely tightening the gas cap, you will restore the readings back within the normal range. A tight gas cap doesn’t mean the Check Engine light will immediately turn off but will keep checking on the report for a day or two. When a poor reading doesn’t come up again, the CPU will turn off the Check Engine light. Based on new information the CPU will always be analyzing different measurements to correct the problem, If successful, the Check Engine light will be turned off.

If the problem persists, then the light will remain on, and you should get your vehicle checked. Your friendly and knowledgeable pros at Wayne’s Automotive Center will plug a scanner into the cars diagnostic port and read the code saved in the computer. The trouble code will give the technician a starting place as he diagnoses the cause of the problem.