|
| |
|
Today's vehicles are highly
sophisticated and efficient. All 1996 and newer cars and trucks have
an advanced powertrain control computer that uses second generation on-board
diagnostics (OBD-II) technology to manage and monitor the operation of the
engine, transmission and emission control components. This computer
system resets and re-tests all sensors and indicators each time the car is
started. OBD, in theory,
keeps your engine running at peak efficiency and will alert you when repairs
are needed. |
|
Normal Operation |
|
When you turn on the ignition, the
"Service Engine Soon" or "Check Engine" light should flash briefly,
indicating that the OBD system is ready to scan your vehicle for any
malfunctions. After this brief flash, the light should stay off while
you drive as long as no problems are detected. |
|
The Light Comes On While Driving |
|
If the light comes on and stays on,
the OBD system has detected a problem. Your vehicle might have a
condition that wastes fuel, lessens engine performance or causes excessive
air pollution. If left unaddressed, these conditions could
potentially damage your vehicle and lead to increasingly expensive repairs.
The light may come on for something as simple as a loose or missing gas cap,
but it also can come on because there is an engine misfire detected, which
can lead to more severe problems. |
|
The Light Stays On |
|
After checking that gas cap thing, if
the light does not go out after a few short trips, the vehicle is telling
you to seek attention soon. |
|
The Light is Blinking |
|
If the light is blinking, a severe engine problem may be occurring and should be
addressed as soon as possible. You can still drive safely, but try to
minimize your time on the road. |
|
Red or Yellow? |
|
Just as a stoplight, yellow warning
lights indicate "proceed with caution." Red warning lights, on the
other hand, indicate a more immediate danger. The most common symptoms
that can cause red warning lights are engine over-heating, low oil pressure,
transmission over-heating, low battery voltage and brake failure.
Unfortunately, when the red light is illuminated, the problem is at its
peek...and it may be a matter of seconds before permanent engine damage
occurs.
Note: Make sure to note the exact
location and working of the light that has been coming on, because Murphy's
Law dictates that the light will suddenly NOT come on when you take it in to
be fixed! |
|
