Check Engine Light

Check Engine Light: Your Car’s Not Trying to Start a Disco

While vehicles have multiple dashboard warning lights, few distress owners like the check engine light (CEL). This engine warning light, also called the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL), displays on a vehicle’s dashboard when the onboard diagnostics system (OBD-II) detects a fault with:

  • The engine
  • Emission control system
  • Ignition system
  • Fuel system
  • Other components


Once you see the check engine warning light illuminate on your vehicle’s dashboard, don’t switch into a panic disco. While the check engine symbol points to an engine issue, it isn’t a 100% signal that you need a new engine or an extensive tune-up. 

Close-up of a car dashboard with an illuminated yellow check engine warning light

Mostly, the check engine light is triggered by milder issues, such as a faulty sensor or loose gas cap. You should bring your vehicle to Sutton Tire Inc. and let our experienced auto mechanics diagnose the check engine light and fix the issue. 

What You Should Know About the Check Engine Light

Depending on your vehicle’s manufacturer, the check engine diagnostic light may be amber, yellow, or orange. When the check engine light appears steady, it signifies a minor problem. But when the light is flashing, it indicates a more serious issue like a misfiring engine.


In other cases, the check engine symbol appears temporary then it turns off by itself. This may be caused by factors such as humidity changes, meaning your vehicle’s engine is fine. 


However, the best course of action when you observe the light is immediately bringing your vehicle to Sutton Tire Inc. for check up. 


Is the Check Engine Code Part of OBD-II Codes?

Yes, the engine fault light is included in the OBD 2 code list under the character P for powertrain codes. The other letters of the OBD-II code are C for chassis codes, B for body codes, and U for Network codes. Because of the many diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) your vehicle may have, it takes a qualified technician like the ones at Sutton Tire Inc. to correctly diagnose OBD-II codes and apply the appropriate solution.


What Does the Check Engine Light Signify?

The check engine light is an engine malfunction indicator for various issues such as:

  • Malfunctions in the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system
  • Faulty spark plugs, ignition modules, and ignition coils
  • Faulty oxygen sensor, throttle position sensor, or mass airflow sensor
  • Misfiring engines due to dirty fuel injectors
  • Faulty evaporative emission control system or catalytic converter
  • A loose, damaged, or missing gas cap
  • Issues with fuel lines, fuel injectors, or fuel pumps


With these many issues that your service engine light can point to, it requires a mechanic well versed in engine error codes to pinpoint the actual problem and fix it quickly. Mechanics at Sutton Tire Inc. have fixed countless vehicles with the check engine light warning, making us your go-to auto shop for such issues and even more complex ones like faulty transmission.


Ignore the Check Engine Light at Your Own Peril

Motorists who ignore the check engine light or postpone diagnosis longer than necessary usually end up paying more for repair. Avoid the common urge among motorists to black tape the check engine symbol on your vehicle's dashboard and assume all is well until your vehicle stalls. 


Rather, pop in our auto shop and get a quick diagnosis and solution. You'll love the speed and immediacy that our auto technicians treat your vehicle's check engine light diagnostic with, so you're back on the road in no time.


Sutton Tire Inc. Says : Let Us Check Your Engine —You Keep Your Panic In Check

Don’t sweat it when you see the engine diagnostic light. Instead, bring your vehicle to our location 293 Monroe St, Clarkesville, GA 30523 for further inspection and diagnosis. You can also call us at (706) 754-6241 and discuss your options with a dedicated mechanic at your service. 


Our auto technicians boast years of expertise diagnosing different check engine codes since we opened doors in 1947. At Sutton Tire Inc., we put you and your vehicle first and save you ample time so you can resume your normal schedule promptly.