Check Engine Light On? Here's What It Could Mean
June 26, 2025
That little orange light on your dashboard can cause a lot of worry—but it doesn’t always mean disaster. At Don’s Automotive, we’re here to decode the mystery of the check engine light and help you take the right next steps.
Your check engine light is part of your car’s onboard diagnostics system (OBD-II). When it detects something unusual in the engine, transmission, or emissions system, it alerts you with that glowing icon.
There are two types:
• Steady light
– Indicates a non-urgent issue (still needs attention soon)
• Flashing light
– Signals a serious problem (stop driving and have your car checked immediately)
Common Reasons the Light Comes On
Here are a few of the most frequent triggers:
- Worn spark plugs or ignition coils: Misfiring engine, poor fuel economy
- Failing oxygen sensor: Affects air/fuel mixture and emissions
- Bad catalytic converter: Reduces engine efficiency, increases emissions
- Mass airflow sensor issues: Impacts engine performance and stalling
Even minor issues can lead to reduced fuel economy or bigger problems if ignored.
What Should You Do?
1. Don’t ignore it
– Driving too long with the light on can lead to expensive repairs.
2. Check your gas cap
– If it’s loose, tighten it and wait a day to see if the light turns off.
3. Get a diagnostic scan
– Our technicians can read the trouble codes and explain exactly what’s going on.
At Don’s Automotive, we use professional scan tools and expert diagnostics to find the real cause
of the warning—not just clear the code.
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