You would love to drive the vehicle in perfect condition, especially when out of town. But there is a possibility that a light may pop up in the dashboard out of nowhere. It might be the check engine light and a sign of a possible problem with your vehicle.
It is worth noting that this check engine light doesn't mean something wrong with the car because it can come on for several reasons. You may have a flashing check engine light then stop, and to know the issue, it is best to visit a professional to resolve it.
What is a check engine light?
When your engine gets started, you usually see a few lights flashing on and off into the instrument cluster on the dashboard. An ECU checks different vehicle systems, including engine temperature, fuel delivery, ABS, airbags, and more. The light goes out when everything is fine.
One light that we don't commonly see is the check engine light. There is a flashing check engine light in some cars, then stop, but in the new vehicles, you will not see the lights unless there is a problem. Therefore, if a check engine light flashes, it means that the ECU has detected some trouble with the engine, and you need to check away what it is trying to tell you.
Reasons why the check engine light might be flashing
- Problems with engine
The check engine light can be triggered if you have any engine problems. The control module monitors the engine operation through a collection of sensors. Therefore, the check engine light gets turned on when it can detect a problem.
- Problems with transmission
The vehicle's transmission translates the engine power, and then it is transferred to the drive wheels. As both assemblies work together, a transmission problem can be responsible for increasing tailpipe emissions. Therefore, if the control module detects this issue, it can turn on the check engine light.
- Problems with modules and sensors
There are several modules and sensors governing the vehicles. There is a vast data network through which these modules communicate. So, if any issue arises with the modules, sensors, and wiring, this can trigger the check engine light.
- Problems with air or fuel delivery
The vehicle’s engine has to correct the air and fuel to run correctly. When it is too little or too much, the control module may notice this issue. Thus, the device might turn on the check engine light.
- Problems with the ignition system
The ignition system consists of coil packs, spark plugs, and other parts required to ignite the air/fuel mixture. The control module thoroughly monitors the operation of the ignition system, and if it detects some problem, it turns on the check engine light.
- Problems with emissions equipment
There is a considerable variety of emissions equipment onboard modern vehicles. This includes a catalytic converter, gas circulation system, evaporative emissions system, and much more. When there is a failure in the emission equipment, there is quite a possibility that the check engine light will turn on.
Final Verdict
You will not know the true meaning of check engine light until an expert diagnoses your car. If you have a flashing check engine light, this could be a warning that it could be something serious that may damage your engine. When a flashing check engine light stops, it is better not to take any chances. It is better to take the vehicle for a diagnosis and repair the issue straight away.