You’re cruising through town, everything seems fine, and then — there it is. That little yellow engine symbol lights up on your dashboard. It’s the infamous ‘Check Engine’ light, officially known as the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL), and it’s your vehicle’s way of telling you something’s not quite right.
If you drive a Chevrolet car, truck, or SUV, knowing what this light means — and what to do next — can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress. At Dyer Chevrolet Lake Wales, our certified Chevrolet technicians are here to help diagnose and resolve the issue, so you can get back on the road with confidence.
What Should You Do When the ‘Check Engine’ Light Comes On?
First things first — don’t panic, but don’t ignore it either. This warning light indicates that your Chevrolet’s computer has detected an issue that needs attention. It might be minor, like a loose gas cap, or more serious, like a problem with your engine’s performance.
Before bringing your vehicle in, take note of how it’s behaving:
- Is it making unusual noises?
- Is it shifting differently?
- Do you notice any loss in power or fuel efficiency?
These clues can help your technician quickly pinpoint the issue.
Common Causes of a ‘Check Engine’ Light
Several issues can trigger the light — some are simple fixes, while others require professional diagnosis:
- Loose Gas Cap: One of the most common and easily overlooked culprits. Check to make sure it’s tightened properly.
- Low-Quality Fuel: Using fuel with the wrong octane level can cause engine issues. Some Chevrolet models require premium fuel — check your owner’s manual to be sure.
- Worn Spark Plugs or Ignition Coils: These can cause misfires and poor engine performance if not replaced at regular intervals.
- Sensor Failures: Oxygen or mass airflow sensor malfunctions can throw off your engine’s computer and trigger the light.
- Vacuum or Hose Leaks: A cracked hose or faulty seal can cause issues with engine performance and emissions.
- Catalytic Converter Issues: If your catalytic converter is failing or has been tampered with, it will trigger the check engine light and may even reduce fuel efficiency or power.
What About the Catalytic Converter?
Your catalytic converter plays a key role in reducing harmful emissions. If it’s damaged or not functioning properly, your vehicle will alert you — and it’s not something you want to ignore. A malfunctioning or missing catalytic converter can severely impact performance and may result in expensive repairs if not addressed.
If yours has been stolen or tampered with (which unfortunately is becoming more common), our team can assess the damage and work with your insurance to replace it properly.
What Happens If You Ignore It?
Driving with the ‘Check Engine’ light on can turn a small issue into a major one. While some problems may not affect immediate drivability, others can quickly escalate and cause damage to your engine or transmission.
Ignoring the warning could mean more time in the shop and a higher repair bill later on. When in doubt, it’s always best to have a technician run a diagnostic scan — a quick and easy way to get peace of mind.
Don’t Confuse It With a Maintenance Light
It’s important to distinguish between the ‘Check Engine’ light and the routine maintenance reminder light. The latter typically signals it’s time for scheduled service, like an oil change or tire rotation. While important, it doesn’t indicate a mechanical issue like the ‘Check Engine’ light does.
If your dashboard is lighting up and you’re unsure what it means, our service team can help clarify and guide you on what to do next.
Trust Dyer Chevrolet Lake Wales for Expert Diagnostics & Repairs
When your Chevrolet is asking for attention, trust the team at Dyer Chevrolet Lake Wales Service to deliver the expert care it deserves. Our factory-trained technicians use advanced diagnostic tools to quickly identify and fix any issues — big or small.
From minor repairs to in-depth service, we’ve got you covered. Schedule a service appointment today and let us help keep your Chevy running its best.
Dyer Chevrolet Lake Wales Service Department – Reliable Service. Exceptional Care. Visit us today or schedule your appointment online.
Connect with us
