How Long Can You Drive With Check Engine Light On?

The check engine light signals that there may be a problem with the car’s engine or emissions system. But how long can you drive with check engine light on?

The check engine light illuminates when there is a possible issue with the engine or emissions system. Some causes include Faulty O2 sensors, faulty mass air flow sensors, and other factors. Although you can drive many miles with the check engine light on, fixing the issue first is best.

In this Dbd guide, we will provide all the necessary information on common causes of the warning light and how far you can drive with the check engine light.

Understanding the check engine light

The check engine light is a warning signal on a car’s dashboard that tells you something is wrong. It stores a trouble code that can be read with a tool to identify the problem. 

Here are some of the key roles that the check engine light serves:

Monitor the engine

The check engine light is connected to the car’s onboard computer. It continuously monitors the engine’s performance and emissions.

Detect problems

The check engine light comes on when something goes wrong with the engine or emissions system. It’s a signal to the driver to check the car’s computer for a problem code. 

Display error codes 

When the check engine light comes on, it indicates that the computer has generated an error code. This code provides a starting point for diagnosing the problem with the vehicle.

Prevent further damage

Ignoring the check engine light can cause more damage. It’s a warning to address issues before they become expensive.

Pass emissions tests 

The check engine light can cause a car to fail emissions tests. Fixing issues beforehand ensures compliance. 

Ignoring the check engine light could lead to costly repairs and emissions test failure. The light serves as an early warning for engine and emissions system problems.

Addressing the issues indicated by the light can prevent serious problems and maintain the vehicle’s health. 

How long can you drive with check engine light on?

 It’s important to address any issues the check engine light indicates promptly. Driving with the check engine light on can have several potential consequences, including:

• Driving with the check engine light on can increase fuel costs due to decreased fuel efficiency.
• Ignoring the check engine light may cause costly engine damage. 
• Ignoring the check engine light can lead to safety risks like brake or transmission problems.
• Driving with a check engine light on may cause an emissions test failure. It may also lead to costly repairs.

The duration one can drive with the check engine light on depends on the underlying problem. Some issues require immediate attention, such as brake problems, engine overheating, or low oil pressure. They can pose serious safety risks to the driver and passengers.

What to do when the check engine light comes on?

If the car’s check engine light comes on, it must be taken to an auto repair shop immediately. Ignoring it could cause reduced fuel economy and car performance, severely damaging the engine and emission system.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do when the check engine light comes on:

Pull over safely: If possible, pull over to a safe location and turn off the engine. Avoid driving if the check engine light is flashing, which indicates a more severe issue.

Check the gas cap: A loose gas cap can sometimes trigger the check engine light. Check the cap and tighten it if necessary.

Check for obvious issues: Look for any obvious signs of damage, such as broken hoses or wires, and check the oil and coolant levels.

Use an OBD-II scanner: If the check engine light remains, use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve the error code. This will help identify the specific issue.

Seek professional help: Based on the error code, seek professional help from a mechanic or dealership to diagnose and fix the issue. Don’t ignore the check engine light, as it can lead to more expensive repairs.

Diagnosing and fixing the problem indicated by the illuminated check engine light is essential. If you ignore the issue, it can lead to further damage and expensive repairs.

Additionally, continuing to drive with a potential issue can be unsafe for both the driver and other individuals on the road. 

Common Causes of Check Engine Light

When the check engine light turns on, it could indicate various issues. Some of the common causes are listed below: ^[1]Car MD, ” Car MD final, https://www.carmd.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/CarMD_APR22VHIfinal.pdf”

• Loose or faulty gas cap
• Clogged or failing catalytic converter
• Fouled spark plugs or spark plug wires
• Faulty oxygen sensor
• Faulty mass airflow sensor
• Malfunctioning ignition coil
• Damaged or loose gas cap

A solid check engine light indicates a non-critical issue that should be addressed soon. A flashing check engine light indicates a severe problem that needs immediate attention.

Related Stories

• Find out everything about Honda Tune Up Cost with our guide.
• Find out everything about windshield replacement cost with our guide.
• Check this guide on Hyundai Check Engine Light – here.
• Find out everything about Jeep Tune Up cost with our guide.
• If your Nissan Check Engine Light is on, check our guide for steps to fix it.

---

FAQs

All in all, whether it is safe to drive with a check engine light on depends on the issue and problem with the engine.

We trust that our guide has provided you with all the necessary information you need to know about how long can you drive with check engine light on.