The check engine light on the dashboard is a signal that the car’s engine computer has detected an issue in the vehicle’s emissions, ignition, fuel, or exhaust systems. It could be caused by something as simple as a loose gas cap, a faulty oxygen sensor, spark plug or something as severe as a faulty catalytic converter or major engine problems, so you should not ignore it. If your check engine light is flashing or blinking rather than staying illuminated, it indicates a serious problem that needs to be dealt with right away. Many of the common causes of an illuminated check engine light are simple and easy to solve, but sometimes, an engine light means something serious has gone wrong.

Even if your vehicle seems to be performing well and your mileage is not dropping, you should not ignore a check engine light. Something is wrong, and it will likely get worse. In addition, if your check engine light is on, your vehicle will not pass an emissions test if needed in your county.