Are you seeing a blinking indicator on your dashboard and don’t know what to do about it? This indicator could be the service engine soon light.
The “service engine soon” light is a warning system on your car that indicates something wrong with the engine. The light will come on when the car’s computer detects a problem.
Ignoring the light could lead to bigger and more expensive problems. So, what should you do if your service engine soon light comes on? Keep reading to find out more!
Service Engine Light: What Does the Service Engine Light Mean?
The service engine light is an indicator on your car’s dashboard that tells you there is a problem with the engine. The light will come on when there is a problem that the car’s computer system has detected. The light could mean a serious problem with the engine or a minor problem that you can fix relatively easily.
What’s the Difference Between a Service Engine Soon Light and a Check Engine Light?
Service Engine Soon Light Explained
The Service Engine Soon light is a warning indicator on your car’s dashboard. The light comes on when the engine runs abnormally or has a problem. The light will usually stay on until the engine is fixed.
There are many things you can do to troubleshoot the problem yourself. You can start by checking the engine oil level and the coolant level. You can also check the engine for any fluid leaks.
Check Engine Light Explained
The check engine light is a warning indicator on your dashboard to know when your car has a problem. It comes on when there is a problem with the engine or emissions control system.
There are many reasons why the check engine light could come on, including problems with the ignition system, the fuel system, or the engine itself. The emissions control system, such as a faulty oxygen sensor, could also be problematic.
Check Out Resetting the “Service Engine Soon” Light. Diagnostic & Top Fixes:
Car Engine Repair Service: Common Causes of the Service Engine Soon Light
Faulty or Loose Gas Cap Repair
A faulty gas cap will not trigger the service engine soon light. However, if the gas cap is not properly tightened, it could cause a loss of fuel pressure, activating the service engine soon light. So, while a faulty or loose gas cap will not always trigger the service engine soon light, it could potentially cause problems down the road if not fixed.
Low Fluid Levels
Low fluid levels are frequently the root cause of service engine soon light. As your car’s fluids get low, the computer system can start registering these as errors, even if there’s nothing wrong with the vehicle. If you’re experiencing problems with your service engine soon and suspect low fluid levels might be the culprit, take your car in for a checkup.
Scheduled Service Overdue
The service engine soon light (SES) will not be triggered by an overdue scheduled service. The SES only comes on when there is a problem with the car. However, keeping up with your scheduled services is still essential, as they can help prevent more significant problems from happening.
Contaminated Gas
A few things can trigger the SES, and contaminated gas is one of them. Depending on the severity of the contamination, your car may need a new gas tank, fuel injectors, or even a new engine.
Catalytic Converter Failure Repair
A catalytic converter failure does not automatically trigger the service engine soon light. However, if the catalytic converter is not functioning properly, it may cause emissions levels to exceed acceptable standards. In some cases, a catalytic converter failure may also cause the car to run poorly or not at all.
Malfunctioning Oxygen Sensor
Malfunctioning oxygen sensors are one of the leading causes of the “service engine soon” light. In most cases, if your oxygen sensor malfunctions, your car will not run correctly and may even be dangerous to drive.
Wires and Spark Plugs
If you have a bad wire or spark plug, it will trigger the “service engine soon” light. So, if you think the “service engine soon” light got triggered because of wires or spark plugs, you should take it to a mechanic to check it out.
Faulty Mass Airflow Sensor
If your car’s Mass Airflow Sensor (MAS) is not functioning correctly, it can trigger the “service engine soon” light. The MAS is responsible for measuring the amount of air that enters the engine, and if it’s not working properly, your car may not be able to run properly.
What to Do When the Service Engine Soon Light Appears
When the Service Engine Soon light comes on in your car, it’s important to take action. This light is usually triggered by a problem with the engine, and if it’s not fixed, the problem could worsen. Here are some things you can do to address the issue:
- Take your car to a mechanic and have them inspect the engine.
- Check the oil level in your vehicle and add more if necessary.
- Fill up your car with gasoline.
- Check the air filter and replace it if necessary.
Can You Diagnose a Service Engine Soon Light?
Seeing that light come on can be daunting, and you may not know what to do about it. Here are some simple steps to help you diagnose the problem and get your car back on the road.
- First, you should pull over to a safe place and turn off the engine.
- Next, check the owner’s manual for your car to see what the light means.
- A specific code may correspond to the light, telling you what’s wrong.
- If there isn’t a code, you can take your car to a mechanic and have them diagnose the problem.
FAQs
Should I Be Concerned About Service Engine Soon Light?
No, you should not worry about the service engine soon light. It is just a warning that your car needs service and does not mean anything is wrong with it. You can continue to drive your car as usual. Bring it in for service when the light comes on to have it checked out.
How long does it take the service engine soon light to go off?
The light will usually turn off within a few minutes or hours after fixing the issue. However, the light may sometimes stay on for a day or two. If the problem is not resolved after a few days, you should take the car to a mechanic to check it out.
Can I drive when the service engine soon light is on?
Yes, you can drive with a service engine soon light on. The light usually means something is wrong with your car, but it’s not always serious. However, in some cases, driving with the light on could damage your vehicle or cause an accident.
Why is the Service Engine Soon light on after I changed my oil?
If your service engine soon turns on after an oil change, it might be because the technician didn’t reset the system properly. When you get an oil change, the technician should reset the system so your car knows the new oil has been changed. If this doesn’t happen, your car might think that the old oil is still in there, and it will trigger the service engine light soon.
What Are the Signs of Bad Ignition Coils?
Bad ignition coils can cause a lot of problems for modern cars. Symptoms of bad ignition coils include:
– Engine misfiring
– Reduced engine power
– Hesitation when accelerating
– Poor fuel economy
– Check engine light is coming on
Final Considerations: service engine soon light
If your service engine soon light comes on, don’t panic. It doesn’t mean your car is about to break down. You can do a few things to troubleshoot the issue and get back on the road. However, in severe cases, it’s important to take your car in for servicing as soon as possible. Failing to do so may further damage your vehicle and lead to a total breakdown.
