Check engine light
Also called: engine light, MIL, service engine soon
The engine computer found a problem. Steady means get it checked; flashing means slow down now.
What it means
The check engine light covers hundreds of possible faults, from a loose gas cap to a misfire. The light itself doesn't tell you the problem; the stored code does. A steady light means get it checked soon. A flashing light means a severe misfire that can overheat and ruin the catalytic converter.
Green, yellow, red: three ways this can look
Match your situation to the closest example.
Keep an eye on it
Steady light, the car runs normally, and you just filled up. Tighten the gas cap and drive normally for a few days.
Schedule a repair
Steady light that stays on, or the car runs a little rough. Get the code read and book a visit.
Stop and get help
The light is flashing, the engine shakes, or you smell fuel. Slow down, avoid hard acceleration, and stop driving as soon as you can.
Common causes
- Loose or worn gas cap
- Oxygen sensor or catalytic converter
- Misfire from plugs, coils or injectors
- Vacuum leak
- Mass air flow sensor
- EVAP system leak
What to do right now
- Check the gas cap
- Get the code read (many parts stores do it free)
- Look the code up on our fault code lookup
- If it's flashing, stop driving soon
Related guides
Symbols and meanings vary a little by make and model. Your owner's manual has the exact meaning for your vehicle.
Other warning lights
Questions
What does the check engine light mean?
The engine computer found a problem. Steady means get it checked; flashing means slow down now. The check engine light covers hundreds of possible faults, from a loose gas cap to a misfire. The light itself doesn't tell you the problem; the stored code does. A steady light means get it checked soon. A flashing light means a severe misfire that can overheat and ruin the catalytic converter.
Can I keep driving with the check engine light on?
Green: Steady light, the car runs normally, and you just filled up. Tighten the gas cap and drive normally for a few days. Yellow: Steady light that stays on, or the car runs a little rough. Get the code read and book a visit. Red: The light is flashing, the engine shakes, or you smell fuel. Slow down, avoid hard acceleration, and stop driving as soon as you can.
What causes the check engine light?
Common causes: loose or worn gas cap; oxygen sensor or catalytic converter; misfire from plugs, coils or injectors; vacuum leak.
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