Q: What does the service engine soon Warning Light mean?
What does the service engine soon Warning Light mean?
YourMechanic
The service engine soon Warning Light is located on the instrument panel. This light illuminates solidly when the on-board diagnostics system (OBD-II) has noticed a malfunction. If the light is blinking, then the OBD-II has detected that the engine is misfiring. If this is the case, drive very carefully, and schedule maintenance as soon as is possible. Tip The service engine soon Warning Light briefly illuminates when your car is first turned on. The light is only a problem if it stays lit for an extended period.
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
My car won't let me drive passed 2500 rpm. And I have no idea why it is doing that when I recently bought it.
The reason it will not go over 2500 rpm is because the computer is in limp mode. This mode is for when the computer has a failure in it. Limp mode will trigger if there is an issue with one...
Why would my car shake while driving?
Hi, thanks for writing in. The first thing to evaluate is the condition of the tires and their balance. If you have a tire defect, such as a belt separation, that will cause shaking at any speed. Tires can also...
I've been noticing that my 2012 Chevrolet Sonic rumbles when going over bumps. I have about 60k miles on it, could it be the sway bar?
Hi there. If the sway bar was at fault, the noise would also be present when turning and a possibility of excessive body roll when turning. The source of noise over bumps can be difficult to diagnose since the bumps...
Hi Ben I noticed That when i took the inertia switch out my truck I heard something one is rattling is that normal
The inertia switch has a metal ball inside the switch that will make contact between the two terminals of the switch when working properly. The inertia switch is designed to move the ball away from the contacts in a roll...
WHEN SHOULD STRUTS BE REPLACED
Hi there: Front end suspension components are impacted more than any other mechanical part in regards to driving conditions. If a vehicle is subject to frequent off road use, road damage or frequent curb strikes, the front end parts like...
My car is making a humming noise when press the gas
Tires with irregular wear can cause a humming noise, just as wheel bearings or possible differential issues can. Here's a way to possible narrow it down. If the tires are making noise, they can be heard outside the vehicle. Making...
What does the brake light and traction slip control light going on and off from time to time while driving and sometimes?
Hello. The brake warning light and traction control light illuminate when the computer has detected an issue with either system. They illuminate together because they effect and rely on each other. The best place to start would be to have...
2 dash lights lighting up at the same time on and off battery/brake alternater is good and battery is good
Hi Robert. Thanks for the question tonight. When these two lights illuminate or flicker like you've described, it usually indicates that a sensor or electrical connection to a sensor that monitors these systems. There are several of these sensors on...
Hi Yourmechanic proffessionals. I have nissan Altima 2013 Car and recently I gave it for cleaning .after cleaning,I found that my
If the engine compartment was cleaned, perhaps with water, steam, or other methods a possibility is water or contaminant intrusion into critical electrical connectors and/or disturbed electrical connectors. That possibility might be conformed once the loss of power is traced...
Related articles
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Mini Cooper Hardtop
Key Key Features The standard 1.6 liter in-line four cylinder engine offers 121 horsepower at 6,000 rpm. While driving in the city, expect to get around 29 mpg while the driving on the highway will get you around 37 mpg....
2012 Chevrolet Cruze vs. 2012 Hyundai Elantra: Which One Should I Buy?
When you’re looking for a four-door sedan, you’re likely interested in a smaller family car that still offers decent styling and looks, great gas mileage, and a comfortable interior that will keep your family safe as you’re driving. While not...
2012 Kia Optima vs. 2012 Nissan Altima: Which One Should I Buy?
Mid-size sedans can be pretty basic, with four doors and simple and straightforward options, decent but not stellar gas mileage, and an uninspired interior. They can also have great design and fight off boredom through sporty suspension and exciting technology...
Browse other content
Estimates
Maintenance
Cities