Q: How long can you drive with a malfunction.indicator light on
Malfunction.indicator light has been on for 1 day, auto zone checked code, something up with catlytic converter, question is how long can I drive before fixed. On road and heading home to fla, 1000 drive thank you
My car has 131000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.
Hi there. In most cases, when a error code is triggered, it indicates that there is an issue that should be inspected or repaired as soon as possible. Depending on the error code, your issue could be due to a faulty O2 sensor, or electrical harness powering these sensors. It’s highly unlikely that your catalytic converter after three years, but that is also a possibility. If you’re not experiencing any symptoms, like the vehicle is stumbling or hard to start or accelerate, you should be OK to continue your trip.
The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our
terms of service
for more details
Get an instant quote for your car
Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing
What others are asking
Belt problem, maybe a pulley problem?
Nothing ruins a nice drive down a scenic road, or worse yet, a rush hour commute, like the serpentine belt deciding to make a run for it. Matters are further complicated when the problem goes further than the belt. There’s...
Car overheating
Overheating is never good for any vehicle. It can be caused by many things like a bad thermostat, low coolant due to a leak, a clogged radiator, a bad water pump, etc. A blown head gasket is the byproduct of...
Bumping noise when car brakes going downhill
The front brake rotors are warped causing the thumping or the antilock brakes are engaging when they should not be. If the problem is in need of repairs then contact a certified mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, to inspect...
Having problems with my air conditioner putting out different temperatures from different vents
Hello. Typically when you experience only one side of the system doing this, it is because of a bad air door actuator motor. These are common failures on most cars. If I knew what kind of vehicle this was, I...
My temperature gauge is going from cold to hot in a half mile. The hose going to the thermastat is HOT. Does it sound like the the
If the thermostat is open you will get the hot bottom and top hoses. Check to make sure the fan clutch is locking up and giving enough air flow across the radiator. If you have electric fan style, then is...
Need to get an alternator replaced on my 2006 ford escape. Was quoted $525 and an additional $125 for the belt. Does this sound correct?
Hello there. Costs will vary depending on whether you have the 4 cylinder or 6 cylinder. The 6 cylinder requires 3 hours to complete the two tasks (alternator plus belt). The 4 cylinder requires a little over 2 hours. These...
Car sputters, shakes, and check engine light on
A good first step that you can perform is to check the engine for air leaks. Any rubber boot, bellows or vacuum hose that is allowing air to leak in can affect the way the car runs. Whether or not...
question
The security system warning light should not illuminate once the vehicle is started and you are driving. If the light does illuminate, that means there is a malfunction in the security system. Obviously, if this problem started immediately after you...
Is There a video showing how to do this
Hello, we do not have repair videos available at this time. We do offer the service to come out and replace the alternator for you, and you can find out more about that here (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/alternator-replacement). Otherwise, look to the internet...
Related articles
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Nissan Armada
If If you need an SUV that lives up to the name “full-size SUV”, the 2012 Nissan Armada just might be your best option. With up to eight passenger seating and a 317-horsepower V8 engine that hauls 9,000 pounds with...
2007 Nissan Versa vs. 2007 Saturn Ion: Which One Should I Buy?
Compact cars as a class are generally meant to be commuter vehicles: with excellent gas mileage, an entry-level price point, and decent safety ratings for those who are on the road the majority of their time. These cars also make...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You're a Teacher
If If you are a teacher, probably foremost on your mind is getting to school on time. You would also probably like a used car that is easy on gas and not terribly expensive, and will hold your gym gear...
Browse other content
Services
Cities