My Check Engine Light is Flashing… Now What?

Blog,Engine Light / July 1, 2020

check engine lightThe last thing any driver wants to see is the dreaded check engine light go off in their car. So, to help you understand this issue, what causes it, and what you should do, our team at Fred’s Auto Repair has put together a small guide.

Why Is My Check Engine Light Flashing?

Whenever you see your check engine light flashing it means that there is a serious issue with your car’s engine and it should be dealt with immediately. It is recommended to try your best and park your car somewhere safe and avoid driving long distances as this could cause further damage and worsen the problem.

An engine control unit is constantly getting values from your engine’s sensors so it can assess the amount of fuel that will be needed and at the angle it should fire the ignition. In the event one of these sensors is not functioning properly, your car will alert you via the flashing light until this issue is corrected.

What Is Causing My Check Engine Light to Blink/Flash

Issues that may cause your check engine like to blink can include ignition problems, an injector issue, and in some cases, it may even be due to an internal engine problem or an issue with the engine’s control unit.

Other causes can include:

  • An exhaust issue
  • Bad coils/spark plugs
  • A problem with the crankshaft or injectors
  • An issue with the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR)
  • And more…

Can I still Drive with This Light Flashing?

As mentioned earlier, our team at Fred’s Auto Repair suggests never driving when you see your check engine light going off. Solid light may be okay to drive a short distance, but a flashing one is a sign of a very serious problem that needs to be looked at as soon as possible. Remember that if you continue to drive with a flashing light it can lead to more severe and expensive issues and even a new engine in more extreme cases.

Visit Fred’s Auto Repair When You See the Check Engine Light Flashing

At Fred’s Auto Repair, we have the experience and tools needed to handle any issue you are having with your vehicle. All our mechanics are ASE Certified Master Technicians and provide the absolute best in auto services and repairs.

Please contact us today for more information or to book your appointment!