Check engine light (steady)

The engine computer has stored an emissions-related fault code. It covers everything from a loose fuel cap to sensor faults and misfires.

ColourAmber
UrgencyModerate

Can I keep driving? Drivable with care. Diagnose soon: performance, economy or other components can be affected.

What to do

  1. Read the stored code with an OBD2 scanner and look it up in our OBD2 database.
  2. Check that the fuel cap is tight.
  3. Note any change in how the car drives: rough running, smells or noises raise the urgency.

Symbols and colours vary between manufacturers. Your owner's manual shows the exact symbols used in your car. In general, red means stop or act now, amber/yellow means check soon, and green/blue lights are information only.

Other warning lights