If your car won’t start, you might be tempted to try and fix it yourself. But if you’re not familiar with cars and mechanics, that could be a risky proposition. In this article, we’ll explain how an engine light works and how to know if it’s a sign that you should call a tow truck or just give up on the car.
What is the Engine Light and What Does It Mean?
The engine light on your car may stay on even if the car starts. This is called a “check engine” light and it means that there is something wrong with the engine. The most common problem with the engine is a misfire, which is when the engine doesn’t start firing all of the time.
How Do You Fix an Engine Light?
If your car has an engine light, there is a good chance that it is due to a simple problem. In most cases, the light can be fixed by fixing the underlying issue. Here are four tips for fixing an engine light: 1. Check the fuel line – If the engine light is due to a problem with the fuel line, the line can usually be fixed by replacing it. 2. Clean the spark plugs – If the engine light is due to a problem with the spark plugs, they can usually be cleaned and/or replaced. 3. Check the air filter – If the engine light is due to a problem with the air filter, it can usually be replaced. 4. Check for loose parts – If all of these other checks fail, it may be necessary to check for loose parts and/or replace them.
What If the Engine Light Keeps Coming On?
If your car’s engine light keeps coming on, there are a few things you can do to try and fix the problem. Some of the most common reasons for an engine light to come on include a cracked or broken headlight, a loose gas cap, or a dirty air filter. If none of these solutions work, your car may need to be taken in for servicing.
How to Reset an Engine Light.
If your car’s engine light is on, there’s a good chance that you can reset it by following these steps:
1. Shut off the car and remove the key.
2. Disconnect the battery cables.
3. Open the hood and locate the Ignition Switch Assembly (ISA). It should be near the front of the engine. If it isn’t, look for it under the dash.
4. Remove the screws that hold the switch in place and disconnect the wires from it.
5. Reset the switch by reconnecting all of the wires and reinstalling it in place. Replace the screws and battery cables.
Conclusion
If your car’s engine light is on, the chances are good that something is wrong with the engine. Before you go to any serious trouble trying to figure out what the problem is, it might be a better idea to just take your car in for service. A repairman will be able to determine whether or not the engine light is actually indicating a problem and can usually fix it without having to replace anything.