Your Check Engine Light is On, What Now?
Top Shop Auto
12.24.2024
Your Check Engine Light is On, What Now?
First off, don't panic!
Seeing the check engine light can be stressful, but it doesn’t always mean a serious issue. Here’s a quick guide on how to handle it.
Assess the Light. If the light is steady, it’s usually not urgent, though you should still get it checked. If it’s flashing, it indicates a serious problem, like an engine misfire. Pull over and turn off the engine.
Visit a Mechanic. If you’re unsure about the cause or the problem seems serious, take your car to a mechanic. Ignoring the light could lead to more expensive repairs later. They will scan the code for you and evaluate the next steps that need to be taken, such as further diagnostic.
Give us a call and set an appointment to get your light checked!
Top Shop Auto Point S
Walnut Creek, CA
(925) 900 8160
Prevent Future Problems, Regular maintenance—like oil changes and fluid checks—can help prevent the check engine light from coming on.
Maintenance on the vehicle will help all the parts last longer. The manufacturer has guidelines to keep the vehicle on the road, most major services follow a 30,000 miles recommendation- 60/90/120/150… (every 30,000 miles). Oil service will very from 5,000 to 7,500 miles, and intermediate services may be needed at each 15,000 mile points. Just look in your owners guide, and/or online to see the manufacturers scheduled service mile points. Other parts can wear out over time and just need to be replaced. California is a special place, being that it is one of the only parts of the country we can keep a vehicle for 20 to 30 years without the body rusting apart. (Parts only need to be provided from the manufacture for 7 years past the build date)
Most shops have a set of Master Technicians who diagnose the needed repairs. Other normally younger technicians, may just do maintenance, brakes, and installation of needed parts while they go to school and learn the ropes. Most Master Technicians specialize in a few car brands, and can handle other brand repairs, referring to the repair guide as needed. Look for training certificates, and awards of merit for the technicians at the shop doing a repair on your car. Ask if you can talk with the technician, ask about his experience.
In short, stay calm, assess the situation, and get professional help. Taking quick action can save you time and money in the long run.
Written by Gianna Feuerstein, Top Shop Auto, Walnut Creek, CA
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