Back to all

The Light Nobody Wants to See (Check Engine Light)

January 23, 2022

You've probably had your Check Engine Light go on.  Then it goes off and you figure, hey, whatever the problem was, it's gone now and I don't have to worry about it.  Well, the problem may have gone away and it may not have.

Your vehicle likely has one of these warning lights on the instrument panel: an amber light that looks like an engine or reads "Check Engine" or "Service Vehicle Soon."  If that light comes on and stays on, it usually means there's something amiss but not urgently in need of service.  (Now if it's blinking, that's another story that we'll deal with in a minute.)

Sometimes when it comes on and stays steadily lit, the problem will go away and the light will go out.  Sometimes it will stay on until you get the problem fixed.  Either way, the engine's computer will store a code that can provide clues to what's not working—or wasn't working—the way it's supposed to.

If you are just dying to know what that code is, you can buy a little code reader or take your vehicle to an auto parts store and they'll read it.  Problem is, the code offers so many options that unless you are a trained technician, you probably won't have a clue what those codes mean. 

So if you want to be sure, take it to your vehicle repair facility and have them check it.  Technicians are trained to decipher the codes and, using their experience and other diagnostic equipment, can get to the root of the problem and fix it. 

As we mentioned before, if that Check Engine light comes on and is blinking, it means a more serious engine malfunction that can damage expensive components such as the catalytic converter and even the engine itself.  It's important to have that checked by a professional as soon as possible. 

Spartan Tire Brighton
4880 Old U.S. 23
Brighton, MI 48114
8102277377

Need Service?

Request a Quote

More articles from Spartan Tire Brighton

Keep It Smooth: Chassis Lubrication

September 6, 2026

If you have a truck, SUV or older car, chances are your vehicle has grease chassis fittings that need regular maintenance. Having them lubricated can give you a smoother, quieter ride and prevent more expensive repairs down the road. Its especially important on parts that have to move a lot, es... More

No Shake, Just Smooth

August 30, 2026

When your vehicles wheels are out of balance, theyll likely give you some clues. Your steering wheel might shake, the floor or seat vibrates and you might find your vehicle pulling to one side. Other signs? Your tires might wear unevenly and may make odd noises. Plus, fuel economy might not be ... More

Your Brakes Are Telling You Something: When Rotor Replacement Makes Sense

August 23, 2026

You may not realize it, but your vehicle is communicating with you all the time. For example, your brakes talk to you through sounds, vibrations and changes in how your vehicle feels when you stop. And one of your brakes components that eventually needs attention is the brake rotor. Brake rotors... More