Your car is equipped with several warning lights. Their job is to alert you to any variation in the performance of your car's vital functions. On newer cars equipped with a computer, a 'check engine' light may be one of the warning systems. It indicates a problem in the computer system itself. The check engine light, however, is not as serious as others like the alternator, oil and coolant lights. If the 'check engine' light comes on, you can still drive your car without causing damage to the engine in most cases. Some models use the 'check engine' or 'service engine soon' indicators to remind you that your vehicle has reached a maintenance interval. To be sure there's not a serious problem, have the system checked and repaired if needed at your first opportunity. While damage won't occur when the engine light is on, the car's performance may be affected. Check your owner's manual for more information if your car is equipped with a computer system.
©2006 Crossroads Mobile. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
