Hi there! It’s me, your check engine light. I know, I know, you’re not really my biggest fan. I get it! Usually, when I appear on your dashboard, you have to go get your vehicle serviced. It sends you into a big panic – trust me, I see when it happens. I just wanted to give you some reasons why I might be appearing, because that might help you know what’s going on a little better, which will make you less anxious, which will help you drive safely and not worry so much. It’s a big cycle. Anyway, here are some of those reasons why I show up from time to time. And no, none of those reasons are to “ruin your life.”

So, first of all, this isn’t the same as the “maintenance required” or “service” light. Usually, when I appear, it means there’s a problem in your engine. I’m just here to tell you about it so that you don’t end up in an accident or with super costly repairs on your hands. If I show up, you should take your vehicle into your dealer or garage as soon as you can afterward. But, there are some things you can do to check yourself before you take your vehicle in for a check by a professional.

First, you should check to see if your gas cap is loose or not on all the way. This is a common reason why I show up – a loose cap sends an error message to your vehicle’s computer, reporting a leak in the vapor recovery system, which is a part of your vehicle’s emissions system. If the gas cap is loose, tighten it and keep driving. If I don’t go away after a little while, then you might have to dig a little deeper.

There are other reasons why I might come on as well – the O2 sensor, which monitors and adjusts the air-fuel mixture; an issue with your catalytic converter (or cat, as some like to call it); a problem with the mass air flow sensor, which also monitors the amount of air mixed in the fuel injection system; or your spark plug wires might have something happening with them.

You should always take your vehicle in to your dealer or your garage when I show up on your dash! It’s not an everyday occurrence, but it is important to take note of when I’m around. You can bring your vehicle into a dealership like King Kia and have it checked out if you’re worried – or if I’m illuminated at all. They’ll take care of you and your vehicle and have you back on the road in no time.