Auto Talk
Check engine light: Don’t freak out By Warren Petersen
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You’re driving down a Colorado road and the check engine warn- ing light illuminates. If you’re like most motorists we’ve served, you wonder if you should pull off the road and call AAA for a tow. In most cases, immediate action
isn’t necessary. Your check engine light is part of a diagnostic system that often tries to compensate for declining fuel mileage or exces- sive vapor leakage from a loose or missing fuel cap. Trouble comes when you ignore
the check engine light over time. You could end up damaging expensive components. The diag- nostic system tracks engine speed (RPM), fuel mixture, ignition
Check engine lights are nothing to be afraid of, but they do indicate a problem that needs your attention.
timing and even tells the trans- mission when to shift. The check engine light might be warning you that any one of these functions may be seriously compromised. On newer cars, the check engine
light may fl ash, indicating a situa- tion that could damage your cata- lytic converter. If the light is blink- ing, it usually indicates an engine misfi re so severe that unburned fuel is being dumped into the exhaust system, which can quickly
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damage the catalytic converter, requiring expensive repairs. A fl ashing light is warning that you should have your vehicle checked out as soon possible. If the light is steady, the problem is not an emergency, but you should schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Check engine lights are nothing to be afraid of, but they do indicate a
problem that needs your attention. Knowing what you should do in the event your check engine comes on is half the battle. Having it looked at quickly by a quality automotive repair facility with the expertise and prop- er equipment can save you money in the long run.
Warren Petersen is owner of Warren’s Automotive Services, 1051 E. Highway 402, Unit B, Loveland, 970-667-9903. Warren’s Automotive is a AAA-approved repair facility (AAR) and Show Your Card & Save partner. You’ll see the shop listed with other approved facilities on pages 48-49.
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