What to Do When Your Check Engine Light is Flashing

Any time the check engine light is lit, it is signaling that the computer on your car has detected some type of malfunction from the engine. A steady check light means that the computer has detected a minor problem, and a flashing light indicates a much more serious problem which requires immediate attention.

When you normally start your car, the check engine light comes on and at that moment the computer on your car is performing a readiness test. The readiness test is when your car checks the engine and emission control components. Once the car passes the readiness test the light generally goes off.

Normally when the check engine light comes on and stays on an emission problem was detected which can be triggered by something as minor as not tightening the gas cap properly. A diagnostic tool can read the check engine code and provide information on which emission check or minor malfunction has occurred. Take your car to an auto repair shop as soon as possible to get it repaired and reset.

The check engine light may flicker on and remain lit at anytime, signaling a minor failure has occurred within the engine. Although it is not best to ignore the notification, having a diagnostic test to confirm and repair the error can prevent major engine failure later on. If your check engine light starts to flash, it is best to stop driving your vehicle and to have it towed immediately to the nearest auto repair shop. A flashing check engine light is signifying that your car's computer module has detected and registered a major failure of an engine component. Failure to heed this warning can result in more damage being done to the engine which can cause other components to fail, resulting in a high repair bill or resulting in an accident where you or someone else are injured.