NAPA AUTOPRO

Check engine light

What the check engine light is telling you

Late model vehicles are equipped with an on-board computer that manages all components, most notably the power train–from the fuel supply to exhaust gases–but also peripheral systems like the brakes, electric system, air conditioning, and even tire pressure, through a network of sensors linked to the computer.

When the main computer detects a problem, a light on the dashboard turns on. In some vehicles, a red light indicates issues that need immediate attention. In others, if the check engine light is flashing, the problem could also lead to serious damage. Your certified NAPA AUTOPRO technician will use a scan tool to get the diagnostic trouble code(s) of a defective part or component.

What to do

Every driver has experienced that stressful moment when the check engine light comes on. In many cases, it means that something serious is wrong and that you should take your vehicle to your NAPA AUTOPRO centre right away so that a certified technician can identify and fix the problem.

What happens

When your engine management system logs a problem and the check engine light flicks on, your service technician will plug in a scanner, download the trouble codes and get to work tracing the cause of the problem. That’s just the first step. That’s when your NAPA AUTOPRO technician’s training, equipment, databases and skill are put to use in the diagnosis and fixing of the problem.

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