The amber light shaped like an engine (check engine) comes on when the car's engine computer (ECU) detects a problem in the engine, the fuel system or the exhaust. It can be something very simple or something that needs attention right away. For all the other lights, see our guide to dashboard warning lights.
Steady or flashing?
- Steady: there is a problem that should be checked soon, but you can usually drive carefully to a garage.
- Flashing: usually means the engine is misfiring badly. If you keep driving normally, the catalytic converter, an expensive part, can be damaged. Slow down, avoid hard acceleration and have the car checked as soon as possible.
Common causes
- A fuel cap that was not closed properly.
- The lambda (oxygen) sensor or the mass air flow sensor.
- Spark plugs, ignition coils or injectors.
- The EGR valve or the diesel particulate filter (DPF) on diesels.
- A problem with the catalytic converter.
How the fault is found
All modern cars have a diagnostic socket (OBD). With a diagnostic computer we read the fault code the car has stored and the sensor readings. The code shows where the problem is, but not always which part is at fault, so a mechanic also needs to check it. Simply clearing the light without fixing the cause solves nothing: it will come back on.
Car diagnostics in Chania
In the workshop we run a computer diagnostic check, find the fault and tell you what is needed before we do any work. If a part is needed, we have it in stock or order it, with free fitting.
These tips are general. Every car has its own manufacturer specifications, so ask us about yours.