Can I Just Ignore My Check Engine Light?
As the master of your own destiny, you certainly can ignore your check engine light — but, should you? Unfortunately not. Although it’s definitely tempting to slap tape over that little glowing light and go about your business, that move is bound to backfire. You could end up with a several thousand dollar repair bill that could have been avoided by getting your car into our South Burlington VT auto repair shop. Ready to learn what to do when your check engine light comes on and why it’s best to heed its warning? Here’s what you need to know.
What to Do When Your Check Engine Light Comes On
Unlike many of the other dashboard lights, the check engine light doesn’t usually indicate a safety issue. So, unless the light is flashing, you can just call the shop and set up an appointment for later in the week.If it is flashing, be sure to pull over somewhere safe as soon as you can and turn off your car. After giving it a minute to sit, turn it back on and see what that light is doing.Still flashing? Then, you’ll need to shut it back off and get a tow into the shop. If not, you are safe to continue on your travels, but be sure to schedule an auto repair appointment as soon as you can to figure out what’s going on.
Top Things Your Check Engine Light Might Be Telling You
A flashing check engine light is serious business. It’s not your safety that’s on the line, however, but your pocketbook. The flashing light indicates a massive misfire, which has the potential to ruin your catalytic converter and cost you up to $2,000 each to replace.Worse yet, some vehicles have up to four catalytic converters, and they are all at risk of sustaining damage from a misfire. If that’s your reality, then you can rest assured that it’ll be much cheaper to arrange for a tow, pay for repairs, and get a rental car than pay for two, three, or four catalytic converters.When you notice a solid check engine light on, 100 other reasons could be to blame, such as:
- Loose gas cap
- Fouled spark plugs
- Bad spark plug wires
- Damaged oxygen sensor
- Dirty mass air flow sensor
The only way to figure out what’s going on is by taking your car down to your trusted auto repair shop in South Burlington VT. Your techs can see if any codes point to the answer, and then perform other diagnostic tests to figure out the exact issue. From there, they can recommend the right repairs and get the work done to your satisfaction.
Is Your Check Engine Light On? We Can Help
Upon noticing your check engine light is on, you can make an appointment at Girlington Garage to get it fixed fast. Our South Burlington VT auto techs always go above and beyond in diagnosing the issue and performing just the right fix.Beyond that, we strive to create a safe space for you to ask questions and learn more about your car. You can trust that we’ll always make you feel heard and only recommend the services your car needs to stay in great shape. If that sounds like just what you want from your auto repair shop, give us a call at 802-247-7917 to find a convenient time to come down.
