If you’re like most drivers, you’re probably extra careful when it comes to your car’s check engine light. After all, a trip to the mechanic could be costly and time-consuming. But what about that remote start?
What is a Check Engine Light?
A Check Engine Light is a warning light that comes on the dashboard of a car when there is a problem with the engine. A Check Engine Light can indicate that there is something wrong with the engine, such as a broken fuel injector or clogged air filter. If you have a Check Engine Light, you should take your car to a mechanic to have it checked out.
If your Check Engine Light is on, you cannot start your car remotely. This means that you will need to get into your car and turn the key off before you can start it. If your Check Engine Light is not on, but your car has an immobilizer system, you still cannot start it remotely.
If your Check Engine Light is not on, but your car has an alarm system, you will be able to start your car remotely if you disarm the alarm.
How to Fix a Check Engine Light
If your check engine light comes on, don’t panic. There’s a good chance you can fix the problem without taking your car to a mechanic. Here are some tips to try first:
1. Check the air filter. A dirty or clogged air filter can cause the check engine light to come on. If you can’t see any debris or dust on the air filter, replace it and see if the light goes off.
2. Check the fuel system. A clogged fuel injector can cause the check engine light to come on. If you can clear the injectors by removing and cleaning the intake manifold, then replace the injector assembly and see if the light goes off.
3. Check for vacuum leaks. A vacuum leak can cause a decrease in engine performance and a check engine light. Repairing vacuum leaks is generally a straightforward job that doesn’t require any special tools or knowledge. If you’re not sure where the leak is located, bring your car in for service and our mechanics will help you find and fix it.
Will a Check Engine Light Prevent Remote Start?
Remote start is a great way to get your car started without having to get out of the car. However, if your check engine light is on, you may not be able to remote start your car.
The reason for this is that when your check engine light is on, the car will not start because it is not running correctly. If your car won’t start because of the check engine light, you will need to take it in for service.
If you have a check engine light, make sure that you don’t try to remote start your car until the problem with the car has been fixed.
Conclusion
Many people are concerned about the potential for their Check Engine Light to prevent them from starting their car remotely. The truth is, there is no definitive answer as to whether or not this will happen. Some automakers have developed systems that rely on a number of sensors in order to determine when someone is trying to start the car remotely, and others simply won’t allow it regardless of the CEL. In either case, it’s always a good idea to check with your manufacturer before attempting to start your car remotely.