Why Is My Check Engine Light On?

The Check Engine Light strikes fear into the hearts of some and is totally ignored by just as many. What it means is a mystery to most drivers. In this article we will be discussing what the check engine light means and how it works, if you would like more information about your check engine light be sure to check with your auto repair professional at Town Hill Auto Service in Bedford PA.

If your vehicle’s check engine light is flashing, that means that something is wrong that could cause severe damage to your engine. Naturally, If your check engine light is flashing, you shouldn’t drive at highway speeds, tow or haul heavy loads. You should get it checked out as soon as possible by a reputable service department.

If the light is glowing steadily, you should keep an eye on it for a day or two. If the light doesn’t go off, schedule an appointment with the staff at Town Hill Auto Sales and Service to get it checked out.

 

Most of your vehicle’s engine functions are controlled by a computer, not surprisingly, called an engine control computer. The computer is able to adjust the engine parameters to compensate for environmental conditions, engine condition and even the way you drive.

In order to make these adjustments, the computer relies on a network of sensors to provide the necessary data. The computer knows the proper operating range for each sensor. When a sensor reading is out of range the computer runs some tests and may activate the Check Engine Light if it gets a negative or unclear reading.

A simple example is a loose or missing gas cap. This may cause one of the sensors to read out of range. The vehicle’s computer doesn’t know if it’s a serious condition that caused the reading or just a loose gas cap, so it stores a trouble code and turns on the Check Engine Light.

Now when you tighten up the gas cap the sensor readings will be in the correct range. The computer will keep checking on the report for a day or two. Since the bad reading didn’t come up again, it turns off the Check Engine Light. The computer will also try to make adjustments to compensate for some readings. If it can do so, it’ll then turn off the Check Engine Light. If the problem can’t be resolved then the light will remain on and you should get your vehicle looked at by the pros at Town Hill Auto Sales and Service in Bedford PA.

Did you know that all of the service professionals at Townhill Auto service in Bedford PA are ASE Master certified mechanics? These dealer trained technicians really know their cars. Certified in all makes and models these professionals can easily diagnose and repair anything; from the smallest leak to a major repair. Back that with being a Napa Certified Service Center you can have peace in mind that every repair uses the highest quality parts with industry-leading warranties. If your check engine light is on your Town Hill Auto Sales and Service technician will plug a scanner into the on-board diagnostic port and read the trouble code stored in the computer. The trouble code will give the Town Hill Auto Sales and Service technician a starting place as he diagnoses the cause of the problem. He will then be able to repair the problem and get you on the road again.